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 ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis’ Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It’s also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause 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 determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you’re not sure which mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that’s air-conditioned, as they’ll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby’s growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren’t tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler’s bed when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot’s beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child’s head from being caught in the arms). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it will block airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It’s the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it’s the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
When placing your child’s cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you’re buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present a risk.
If you’re unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing 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 to keep everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It’s also easy to put together with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler’s desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head on the cot’s side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. There’s also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new crib as your child gets ready to go up. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of a crib sets. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby’s time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
If a cot doesn’t meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn’t be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn’t fall off.
Storage
Whether you’re a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It’s important to consider storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin mini cot beds. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of a separate bed.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small cot beds items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great choice when space is a problem but you’ll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase an additional mattress tots and cots bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don’t come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that’s ideal to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components 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’s crib when your child is ready.