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How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.





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

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are best cots for newborns of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the best one for your baby's needs.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage an ideal posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not bent or sagging. The slats must also be securely fixed to the frame so that your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot the safety of your child's sleep should be a priority. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall because it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your child begins to crawl and climb up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights in order to expand with your child which is extremely convenient and an added safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may peel off and present the risk of.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or attend the local NCT New Baby course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with a guide be sure to go through it prior to using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of white and natural wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy 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 the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like a handle or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. The cot also has drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last for 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 generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.

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

A crib isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be further converted into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. nursery cots lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're short on space, you should be aware that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.