How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they awake.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. If your child is confidently climbing 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 levels, so that it will expand with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources and power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and cots4tots.co.uk transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of white and natural wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a wide 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 converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like the handle or corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

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

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

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

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This lets parents save money on an additional bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small objects. 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 desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. 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 cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.