How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot which has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on 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 vital to your the comfort. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your little one doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their little one to wake up bright and cheerful!

You'll find most cots have drawers underneath to store items and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. This information is found in the product description and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot a safe sleeping environment is a must. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could trap the child's arms or head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the up position.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure option for your cheap baby cots when they start to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to grow with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to stand up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, make sure whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look out for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or visit an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming suffocated. It also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This lets you avoid buying a new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. However, they are pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best cots for newborns option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a cot.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other key elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires 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 dolls, as well as other small things. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other cheap baby cots necessities.

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

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but within easy reach. Our panel was able to find it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.