How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the one that is suitable for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats should also be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is great if you want your baby to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, 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 drop sides for small cot beds babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, because they can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on the wall if it is an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cheap cots have a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like 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's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned 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. 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, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, opt for a cot.

A crib 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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's good value too.