How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you’re expecting a baby, it’s important to choose a cot sales that’s safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It’s also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Find a comfortable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers – so do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby’s needs.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn’t get caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you’re not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they’ll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child’s growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren’t big or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler’s cot when it’s time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed’s sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child’s head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present – to prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it’s the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child – this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.
When putting your child’s cot in the crib, make sure there aren’t any obvious dangers. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child’s safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you’re not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It’s also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see 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 side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. There’s also an opening that can be removed to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it’s built to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you’ll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they’re ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small cot beds, a crib might be the best cots uk choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents’ room or you’d like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.
A crib isn’t safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn’t meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn’t be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn’t get tossed out.
Storage
No matter if you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it’s crucial to think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dolls, as well as other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy – and it also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you’re short on space, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase an extra drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren’t usually included in the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is stunning example of Scandi style at its best baby cots. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that’s ideal to keep baby’s essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It’s suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it’s good value too.