How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It’s also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best crib newborn cot beds keep baby’s warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best infant cribs one for your baby’s requirements.
It doesn’t matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.
If you’re not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they’ll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they wake up.
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 purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra peace of mind, look for a cheap cot bed that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child’s arms or head). Make sure 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 substances for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
A drop side should only be allowed to go down only if an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it’s the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child’s cot to expand with them. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.
When placing your child’s cot ensure there aren’t any visible dangers. 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. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.
If you’re not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult 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 prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a dazzling array of baby outfits. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails that protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot’s side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. There’s also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it’s strong enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they’re ready to move on. They are more expensive than good cribs.
If your nursery is small, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your best baby cots‘s time in your room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.
A cot isn’t suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn’t meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses’ thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn’t be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you’ll need is a mess regardless of whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it’s essential to think about storage options when choosing a crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.
Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you’re running out of space, it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler’s crib when your child is ready.