How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you’re expecting a baby it’s crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This simple but stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a 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. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available – foam, coil springs 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 an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they’ll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
When it comes to style there’s a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up bright and happy!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate your child’s growth. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler’s bed when it’s time. Find this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn’t be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child’s arms and head). Check that it’s solid and thin – more thick mattresses aren’t recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall because it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recommended cribs recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they’re ready to transition into a junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child’s growth This is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.
When putting your child’s cot in the crib ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.
If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It’s also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
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 prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it’s built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed when they’re ready to move on. They can be more expensive than a crib.
If your nursery isn’t big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of 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 room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.
A crib isn’t safe 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 babies. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.
Stores
If you’re a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a Baby cots on sale (pattern-wiki.win) needs is staggering. It’s important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy – and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you’re short on space, you should keep in mind that you’ll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren’t typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best baby cots and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that’s perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It’s suitable for infants as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler’s bed when your child’s ready.
