How to Choose the best crib Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your child. Choose a sale cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant crib is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has 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 baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it hard to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose danger.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They can be more expensive than good cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some affordable cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one 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 also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.