How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's secure and safe for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as it can block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best option for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-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 in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
best cots uk teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.