How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses on the market that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the best one for your cheap baby cots for sale's needs.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous sale cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib sets's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering 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 you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
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 essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds (see this here) can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots offers are designed with an older style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.