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 secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses 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 requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing the right cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on an additional bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
top ranked cribs is a great choice when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.