How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that 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.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin 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 cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most recommended cribs important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online cots reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a mini cot beds that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing tots and cots climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.
If you're not sure how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. There's also a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built 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 typically 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 bed when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This will allow parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.