How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This simple but elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best 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 cause the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an ideal posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sliding. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

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

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some affordable cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and pose a danger.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate 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's description for more details).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to move up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best cot newborn option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great solution when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best cots and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.