How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a child, it is important to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cots cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - foam, coils springs, 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 conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same is true for the slats. They should be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be secured to the frame, so your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature, and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with 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 the growth of your baby. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Look for a cot which is in compliance with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the description of the product and 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 shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. If your cot has a solid end be sure to avoid placing it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it will be safest when your baby starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into the junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights to allow it to expand with your child which is extremely practical and a great safety measure. Some cots come with footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece be sure to look for any hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and pose danger.

If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely consult other parents or attend a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the Baby beds necessities like nappies, bedding, and a stunning variety of baby outfits. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than a crib.

If your nursery cots is small, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan to spend a lot of your baby's time in the room or if you require an item that lasts longer, you should consider a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards set out in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Stores

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single bed to increase their use.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small things. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes in a few cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best cot bed. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep baby's essentials out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's good value too.