How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This slick and elegant cot is our top pick from the Anyday range of 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 babies comfy and cosy. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create the danger of being suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the most suitable one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide proper support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sliding. The slats should also be firmly fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful when they awake.

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

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

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot/cot bed's sides or ends (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended, as they may increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This could restrict airflow, which can cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows your child's cot to grow with their needs. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their beds.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters or windows, power points and blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your mini cot beds has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and then follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh style will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural wood and white, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It is also easy to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They stop your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also stop children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

cot bed sales beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a bed at an age when they're ready for the transition. They can be more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby cots on sale be expected to spend a lot of time in their parents' rooms or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider 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 important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting a crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers underneath 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 cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like the flexibility of a design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and dummies, as well as other small things. This allows you to keep everything organized, neat and tidy and looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their child.

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

This is a great option when space is a problem, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a spacious under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very easy to put together, thanks to 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, which means it's a good investment too.