How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is essential to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. Mini Cot Bed www.cots4tots.co.uk stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they are pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.