How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
If cribs beds 're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop 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 babies who are small or have 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 a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only if an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It's also easy to build with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to move up. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. best crib newborn to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.