How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.
Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose the risk of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.
No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great when you want your child to wake up bright and cheerful!
Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information can be found in the product description as well as the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials, from foam to natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
Drop top rated cots should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If best crib for newborn has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.
Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.
When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. 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. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present the risk of.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed when your child is ready to go up. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.
If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby mattress 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.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great idea if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.