Penni Weigel asked 1 month ago
How to Choose the Best Cot Bed Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis’ Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It’s also simple to put together with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.
If you’re not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they’ll aid in to 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 ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and happy!
There are a lot of cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.
Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler’s bed when it’s time. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When selecting a cot, the safety of your child’s sleep is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child’s arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren’t advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.
Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they allow more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as 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 have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child’s cot to grow with the child. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger – it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.
If you’re not sure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It’s also simple to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product’s description for more details).
One of our favorite features are the teething rails, which shield your baby from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it’s built to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed until they’re ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive than a standard crib.
If your nursery is small, you may be considering a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby’s time in your room or you need an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib sets.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn’t be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn’t fall off.
Storage
The amount of baby gear you’ll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you’re a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots to tots have additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top rated cots changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or [Redirect-302] a small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.
Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown 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 fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save money on a separate bed.
Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies, as well as other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.
This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren’t typically included in the cot itself.
This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that’s great for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler’s bed when your child is ready.