How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. cot for sale can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding portion 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 newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown 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 fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dolls along with other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.