How to Choose the best crib Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best one for your baby's needs.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up bright and content!
Most affordable cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots 4 tots have a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot sale has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby 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, such as the handle or corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being trapped. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed when they're ready to move on. However, they are pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for Baby Crib. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on an additional bed.
A number of cot beds come with 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 great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as 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. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.