Why We Why We Cot Beds (And You Should Too!)
How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
This slick and elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market that include coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.
Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
When it comes to style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they awake.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If best cots about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more information).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new crib when your child's ready to go up. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom 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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here 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 easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dolls and other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great option when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.