How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's safe and secure for your child. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. 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.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sagging. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

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

There are a myriad of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors, which is ideal when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

There are a lot of affordable cots that have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the upward position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall since it can block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to expand with the child. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure that there is no obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources, power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

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

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to put together with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They prevent your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

cot beds, Valetinowiki.racing, are typically larger than cribs and can be turned 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 move on. However, they may be pricier upfront than the crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best rated cribs option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider a crib.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to consider storage options when choosing the right cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one 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 simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A number of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy and looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their infant.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cheap cot beds is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel found it very easy 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 bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.