How to Choose the Best 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 little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the key specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. recommended cribs suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who like to stand up.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could 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 may peel off and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a cot.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not 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 stuff a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small items. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best 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 found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.