How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's requirements.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and happy when they awake.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended, since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into the junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. These can peel off and cause danger.
If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
best rated cribs for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the crib bed. There are great crib of cots that have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This 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 it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks great. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great solution for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.