How to Choose the Best Mini Cot Bed Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple 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 locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When you place your child's cot, make sure there aren't any obvious dangers. 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 pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and an impressive array 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 when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new crib when your child is ready to make the leap. However, they may be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby cot online equipment you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other cheap baby cots necessities.
This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.