How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby, it is important to choose a cot that 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 choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed - helpful resources, cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's needs.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be the top priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cheap cot bed-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present, to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child begins to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to expand with their needs. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting 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 any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is 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 transfers that may be removed and pose a risk.

If you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural and white wood as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying a new crib when your child is ready to go up. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space, but if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, consider a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too wide apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds for sale beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small cot beds objects. This makes it easier to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks great. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots have an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great choice for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. It is also possible to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.