The Most Significant Issue With Cot Beds, And How You Can Fix It
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable 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 satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description and the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing nursery cots on a wall if it has a solid end. This will hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence 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, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.
When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look out for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you are unsure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
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, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to move up. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider 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 covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their child.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're short on space, you should remember that you will require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.