How to Choose the best crib Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best Cot bed cot sets beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with the child. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and follow the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows 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 stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new bed when your child is ready to go up. They are more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best cot beds option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling off.
Storage
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose a crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.