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 little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up 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.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. 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/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great 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 locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When best crib newborn put your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure 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. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also simple to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for 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 converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers 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 far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when selecting a cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel was able to find 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 bed once your child's ready.