How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. 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 cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small 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 is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the description of the product and the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. cheap cots aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. great crib come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to go up. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a 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 option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal 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 converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.