How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cheap cot beds that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help you regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer, teething rails that prevent 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 smaller babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

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 edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted down only when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure option for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will expand with your child This is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you place your child's cot ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be kept away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh style will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more information).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new bed when your child's ready to go up. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning on spending a lot of your baby's time in the room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or Best baby cots a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.

Some cot beds can be further transformed into a daybed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies along with other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their infant cot bed.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and come with a large storage drawer underneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you should keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding, as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.