How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that's secure and safe for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant cot beds for sale from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best cots one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to the comfort. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are many styles to choose from such as traditional sleighs, with intricate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great if you want your little one to wake up bright and happy!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or suffer from health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential factor when selecting a cot. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has drop sides, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop when an adult is present; this prevents accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it's safer when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to grow with your child This is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When placing your child's cot be sure that there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent them from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This lets you not have to buy a new bed when your child is ready to move up. However, they may be more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your baby is likely to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you're looking for a more durable bed, you should consider a cot.

A cot sets isn't safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats must not be too far apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

The amount of baby cots on sale (funny post) equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots come with additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their usability for longer.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to reduce the expense of a separate bed.

A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

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

This is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, which means it's also a good value.