How to Choose the Best Cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots for newborns cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could pose the danger of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.

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

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description as well as key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the Mini Cot Bed/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your crib has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against 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 ends may be safer as they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a wide selection of best baby cots clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib sets may be the best cot bed choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots have a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer on your own. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the 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's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.