How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. small cot beds is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up bright and content!
Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing 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, so that it will expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.
When you put your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create danger.
If you're not sure how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a stunning assortment of baby clothes. It is 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 when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed when your child is ready to make the leap. However, they are more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or 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 covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe 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 stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to think about storage options when selecting the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A variety of cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. 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 made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.