How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could cause the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a bed. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they begin 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 a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. best cot beds love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies, as well as other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.