How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot which has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your ease of use. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal if you want your child to wake up bright and happy!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath, teething rails that prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also purchase a drop side for smaller babies or those with health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with 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 key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials including foam and natural materials that are great for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, slatted end cots may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cheap cot beds is fixed on one side, then you can choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.

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

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be away from heat sources and windows, power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your crib comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

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

One of our favorite features is the teething rails, which shield your little one from smacking their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to make it easier for you to access your newborn. We love that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to move on. However, they can be pricier upfront than a standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots and tots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their use.

Some cot beds can be adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds feature hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

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

This is a great solution if space is an issue, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best infant cribs and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found 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 once your child's ready.