How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.
This simple but elegant coffin is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot mattress keeps infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.
If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must be secured to the frame so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with them. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to check for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.
If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than cribs .
If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and occupies 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 bedroom or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby gear 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 consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.
Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.
A number of cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.
A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.