How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a 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. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the danger of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they awake.
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or 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 mattresses made of a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and climb up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it before using it and follow all the directions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot 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, preventing them from becoming suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new crib when your child's ready to move up. However, small cot beds may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may think about the possibility of a crib. 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 the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also 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 dolls along with other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.