How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby cot online. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish 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 baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot sets when it's time. This information can be found in the product description and key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than good cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.
A cheap cot beds 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 deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a 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 a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This lets parents save money on a separate bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.