How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a child it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for cot Bed your child.

Whether you opt for a convertible or standard cot bed sales, the primary factor to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy 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 will not become caught in the movement during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel cheerful and happy when they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Find this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

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

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves 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 an option that allows the base to be raised up to three levels. This is a wonderful security feature that allows your child's cot to grow 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 visible dangers. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could present a strangulation threat. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the instructions.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop 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 prevent them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new bed as your child gets ready to move up. However, they can be more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib could be the best crib newborn option for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear 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. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls, as well as other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy, neat tots and cots tidy and also looks amazing. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood, which could cause irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great choice if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its Best cot bed and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it straightforward 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 good value too.