How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that's secure and safe for your little one. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly 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 buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. These can all create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfers that may peel off and present a risk.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, cheap cot beds can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).
One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like a handle or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming trapped. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child is ready to make the leap. However, they may be more expensive than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small things. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their infant.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots have an older style and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.