How to Choose the Best Cot Bed Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best infant cribs cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types 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.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be secured to the frame so that your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. 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 can hold the child's arms and head). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for 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 typically larger than cribs beds and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that will last longer, you should consider a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose a crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top rated cots changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
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 conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of a separate bed.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their cheap baby cots.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some best cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you should remember that you will have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.