How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be secure and safe for your child. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot newborn cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame, so your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details tots and cots sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great if you want your baby to wake up bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues 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 cot when it is time. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop sides, make sure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed 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 will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be away from heat sources, windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features is 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 a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting trapped. There's also drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under 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 as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best crib option for you, as it's 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, opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small cot beds items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.