How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child, it is important to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could pose the danger of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available - 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 select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can help regulate your body temperature and less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Find this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment should be the top priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the sale cot/cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may 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 have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should only be allowed to fall when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side, opt for this as it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

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

When placing your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be kept away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot sales bed with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of cheap baby cots outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your baby. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best crib option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save on the cost of an additional bed.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organized tidy, neat and tidy - and it also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another thing to look for is a toothing rail that is available in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect to store blankets, toys clothing, and other cheap baby cots necessities.

This is a great option when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.