How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top rated cots pick is this basic but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps that could pose a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a range of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your child to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it's time. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

When selecting a cot sets, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. Make sure that the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps could trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid bottom do not place it against the wall as it can block airflow and can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots come with features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights in order to grow with your child This is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who like to stand up.

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

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New baby cots on sale class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, and an enviable variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed and desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby 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 drop-sides to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other essential elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, such as drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small objects. This keeps everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is an additional desired feature that is found in some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you should keep in mind that you'll require a separate extra drawer. You may need to buy bedding and a mattress separately because oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's good value too.