How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.
When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also, keep it 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 be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present a risk.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.
This is a great option when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. sale cot cots4tots.co.uk found it very easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.