How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide proper support and promote a healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent 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 purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If This Internet page has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like 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 toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for 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 bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the cot bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.