How to Choose the Best cot for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is breathable, 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 elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and content!
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot bed sales, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually 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 new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out 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 must not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A variety of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with cheap cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other Baby Cot essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.