How to Choose the Best cot for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant cot is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could create the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The slats should also be secured and not sagging. The slats need to be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bright primary colors which is great for those who want their little one to wake up bright and content!

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

For added peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot, a safe sleeping environment is a must. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in a variety of materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your crib 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, this prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot 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 as they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some best cots have an option that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic safety measure and enables the cot of your child to grow with them. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When putting your child's cot in the crib be sure that 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. All of these could create strangulation risks. When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your crib comes with a manual ensure that you go through it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see product description for more information).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from getting suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We love that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, Best cot for newborn if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements in baby cot mattresses), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their usage.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some Best cot for newborn beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included with cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cheap cots are designed with more traditional designs and come with a large drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, you must be aware that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.