How to Choose the best cots for newborns Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could cause the risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.

Whether you opt for a standard or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is great when you want your child to wake up feeling fresh and content!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't big or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, best crib look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is found in the product description as well as the key specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping is a must. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers and some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It will be the most recommended cribs secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to increase with your child's growth - this is very convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots also have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any visible dangers. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple 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 gets older (see the product description for more information).

The teething rails are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new bed when your child's ready to make the leap. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to 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 some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.