How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose cheap cot beds that are breathable, as they aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure 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 unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they may be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
If cheap cot bed are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing a cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby necessities.
This is a great solution when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.