How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that 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.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
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 can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the description of the product and key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. It also features an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
cot bed sales beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they are more expensive than the standard crib sets.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require a bed that will last 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 important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.
Storage
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose a cot bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating sale cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their use for a longer 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 like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat - and it also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and include a large storage drawer beneath 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, you should be aware that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.