How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
When you are expecting your first child it is essential 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 pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best one for your baby's requirements.
If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful as they awake.
There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or key specs.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Do not place best cot newborn against walls if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms 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 unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner you can ask parents around or go to an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple 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 top features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to go up. They may cost more than a crib.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a cot.
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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.
Storage
The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of 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 prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.
A teething rail is a desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.
best cots for newborns is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.
This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.