How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and content!
There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
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 gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present, this prevents accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. top rated cots stop your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed as your child gets ready to move up. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room, or if you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.
If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.