How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your child to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If mini cotbed features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a 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 amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate 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).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets 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. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.