How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are best cot newborn of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to move up. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or 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 outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to be aware that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. 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 transformed into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.