How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are many types of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with elaborate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great if you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

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 baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Find this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, the safety of your child's sleep is a must. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials, from foam to natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental release. If your coffin has a solid edge be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to expand with your child This is extremely practical and a great security measure. Other cots come with footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. If you're buying furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose the risk of.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask parents around or go to 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 directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like drawers under the bed to store all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and an enviable array of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow parents to reach their newborn. We love that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and it's built to last for up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed when they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive than the standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you since it is smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' rooms or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling off.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

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

A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail which is included with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you should keep in mind that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel was able to find it straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.