How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose best cots for newborns that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. 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 keeps infants comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.
Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is essential to ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal if you want your little one to wake up bright and cheerful!
You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be 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 move to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.
When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present danger.
If you're not sure about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and adhere to the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds are usually larger 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 transition. However, they are more expensive upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to think about storage options when choosing a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another thing to look out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, you should be aware that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.