How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best infant cribs one for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame so that your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your cheap baby cots (read the article). You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot 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 since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot sets comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready to move on. However, they are more expensive upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best crib option for you as it is smaller tots and cots occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their use for a longer time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dolls along with other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.