How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it is essential to select a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to purchase, talk to your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are great 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.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and could cause the death of a coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you are unsure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting trapped. It also features drop-sides to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than recommended cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they may be more expensive than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your Baby Cot Bed 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 safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed as shown 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 requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

A few mini cot beds beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.