How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with 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 an storage drawer. It is also easy to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot the mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or browse online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain 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 painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.

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

Find a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information is available in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could 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 mattress has an inclined side, make sure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child - this is very practical and a great security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and pose a danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult parents around or go to the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has a manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the innovative features like drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cheap cot beds or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to transition. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best crib for newborn choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space, but if your child is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, like the one shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small things. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood which can cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer beneath the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes blankets, baby necessities.

This is a great option if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.