How to Choose cot beds for sale for Your Baby
If you are expecting a child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.
Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the best one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not be caught when they move in their sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.
When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and cheerful as they wake up.
Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on 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 are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
For added security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.
A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.
If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.
Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.
If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it should be away from heaters or power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).
One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.
If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby mattresses for cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.
Stores
If you're a new parent or a seasoned one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.
Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible 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.
Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small things. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.
A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.
This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.