How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.
If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy 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 your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.
Ask tots and cots and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. 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 pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!
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 even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For extra security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick 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 great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they allow for greater 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 climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, make sure that there isn't any visible danger. It must be away from heat sources, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).
One of our favorite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like the flexibility of a 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 hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their child.
Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail that comes with some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.
This is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very 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 transformed into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.