How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours, which is ideal when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall only if an adult is present - this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom, avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot beds for sale is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of Baby Crib clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted 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 pricier upfront than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements in baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when you choose a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small things. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is an additional important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothes, and other baby essentials.

This is a great option if space is an issue but you'll need 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-style cot bed is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.