How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they permit more airflow.
If crib sets has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and climb up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present the risk of.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
The teething rails are among our top features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a cot.
A cot isn't suitable 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to think about the storage options when you choose a crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is stunning example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.