How to Choose the best crib newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could create the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their little one to wake up bright and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have 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 even purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great crib for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This will restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
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 part of the cot, like the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
cot beds (Bookmarkspot.win) are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.
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 deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to consider the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.