How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best rated cribs cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a bed. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and create the risk of.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural wood and white as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold 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. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found 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 and you can avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby cots on sale's time in your room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting a cot bed (Shenasname.Ir). Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.
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 prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is 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 come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep cheap baby cots necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.