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 safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep babies comfortable and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature 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 their needs. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for up to 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 can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of 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 the room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. cot beds for sale features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.