How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
This minimalist, stylish cot is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could pose a risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses on the market including 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.
No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for Cots4Tots them to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure 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 different materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).
The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new crib when your child's ready to make the leap. They may cost more than cribs.
If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Stores
No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.
While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.