How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's secure and safe for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet 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 a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cots cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.
In terms of style there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker 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 for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers 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 visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of 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 details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your cheap baby cots for sale is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't get tossed 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. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A few infant cot bed beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. 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 bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good cribs investment too.