How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting a baby it is crucial to choose a cot that will ensure safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot bed keeps babies comfortable and cozy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available: foam, coils springs, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be securely attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be secured to the frame so that your little one doesn't get stuck in them while they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

There are many styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can also purchase a drop side for petite infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

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

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. 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 the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go to fall when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and climb up. Once your child is standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to transition into a junior bed.

Some cots feature features that allow the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will increase with your child's growth - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you place your child's cot for sale 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. They all could create strangulation risks. If you're buying second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers that can be removed and pose danger.

If you're not sure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with instructions, read them carefully before you start using it, and then follow the safety-use guidelines carefully.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as handles or a corner post. They will also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the specifications below for each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed when they're ready to move on. However, they may be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small cot beds, a crib might be the best option for you, as it's smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for 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 mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure your baby doesn't fall off.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or an experienced one. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when choosing the crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing 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 prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies along with other small objects. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their infant cot bed.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is perfect for storing blankets, toys clothing, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, it's important to be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You might need to purchase bedding and a mattress separately since oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best baby cots and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.