How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top choice is this simple but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot mattress keeps children comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best crib one for your child.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor Best Infant Cribs bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted 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 meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is available in the product description as well as the specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, a safe sleeping environment should be a priority. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could restrict the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of 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 cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a fantastic security feature that allows your child's cot to expand with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

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

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, and Cots Offers its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a dazzling variety of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds can be transformed into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy a new bed when your child's ready to move up. They can be 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 require an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some affordable cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A variety of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy and neat and also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to stop your child from chewing on the wood that could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which is perfect to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.