How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best crib newborn cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.
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 can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots and tots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you place your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create 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 the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
cot sets beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib when your child is ready to make the leap. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.
A crib 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible 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 feature 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 beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.