How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep children comfortable and warm. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats should also be secured and not sliding. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't tall enough or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Baby Cot Bed
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. Baby Cot Bed is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of an additional bed.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.