If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.Our top pick is this basic but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are a variety 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 promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.
If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.
There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.
Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. 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). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
A drop side should be allowed to drop only when an adult is present; this prevents accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, Cots4Tots it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who love to stand up.
When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from power and heater points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).
One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. They can be more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.
A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.
Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.
A number of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.
A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
This is a great option when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.
