How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find Baby beds with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. 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 needs.
No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.
Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.
There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their baby to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.
Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This will restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.
Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.
If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).
The teething rails are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib 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 suffocating. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.
Storage
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This also 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 along with other small objects. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby necessities.
This is a great option when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it straightforward 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's crib when your child's ready.