How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be secure and safe for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The Best Cot Bed cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could pose a risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the best one for your baby's needs.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't trapped in them while moving during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for smaller infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the product description or in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked tots and cots in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will limit airflow, which could lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause 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 cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding, and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from smacking their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for 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 are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space, but if your child 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 crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of Baby beds equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options, such as under-bed drawers or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to extend their use.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of a single 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 and dolls, as well as other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots and tots are designed in more traditional designs and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.