How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could pose the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the best one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

In terms of style, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your child to wake up bright and happy!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is available in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is 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 this will restrict airflow and can cause the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great security feature that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots have footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it before using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. It also features a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than 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 when they're ready to transition. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best Cot bed choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a cot.

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 should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usability for longer.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.