How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety tots and cots security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they awake.

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present; to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because it will block airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to grow with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the combination of natural and white 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 array of baby outfits. It's also easy to put together, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

The teething rails are among our most loved features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new crib when your child's ready to go up. However, they may be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots to tots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.

This is a great option for those who have limited space but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best cot Bed. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all Baby Crib necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.