How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your baby cots online

If you're expecting a baby, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your child. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds will keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety 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 ease of use. It should provide adequate support and encourage an upright posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature and are less likely to hold bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase drop sides for small babies or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or key specs.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't recommended, baby cot as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow more airflow.

If your cot is set to one side, you should choose it. It's the most recommended cribs secure choice for your baby as they start to crawl and then pull themselves upwards. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth This is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains and blind cords. All of these could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to read it before using it and follow the instructions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, and its smart features, including under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The rails for teething are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This lets you avoid purchasing a new crib as your child gets ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However it is recommended to consider a cot if you are planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a crib.

A cot isn't safe 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 Baby Cot (try what she says) mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of things that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. It also lets parents save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies and other small items. This helps keep everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.

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

This is a great choice when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best cots for newborns. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's good value too.