How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose the right cot that is secure and safe for your little one. Look for 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 positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The Best Cot Bed cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a range of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's needs.

No matter if you choose a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they awake.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

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

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in a variety of materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your mini cot beds against the wall if it is an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great safety measure and enables your child's cot to grow with them. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to stand up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

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

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They can 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 it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new crib when your child's ready to make the leap. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, consider 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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby mattress cots to tots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the right cot bed. There are a variety of cots and tots that have additional storage options, such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since 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 best. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.