How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be 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.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best rated cribs cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause a risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an upright posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.

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

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

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be allowed down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots to tots could be safer as they permit more airflow.

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

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters and windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood and the clever features such as drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of cheap baby cots for sale clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot like handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

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

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended cribs to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should opt for a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small things. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its Best Cot bed and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.