How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

Our top choice is this simple but stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available, including foam, coils springs, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

No matter if you select an ordinary or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must be secured to the frame, so your little one doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or browse online reviews. 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 a variety of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even 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 can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information can be found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is essential and a big consideration when choosing a crib. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are good cribs for those suffering from allergies. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure that it is in the up position and secured.

A drop side should be allowed to drop when an adult is present; this will prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end do not place it against the wall since it will block airflow and may contribute to death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge, opt for this as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, it is a sign that they are ready to move into the 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 extremely convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers who wish to sit up in their bed.

When you put your child in their cot, check whether there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, best cot Beds power points and curtains and blind cords (these can be strangulation hazards). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and create a risk.

If you are unsure about how to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white pine, and its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed and desk when your baby grows older (see the product's description for more details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents 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 transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which are listed in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

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

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements in baby cot mattresses) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff the baby will require is immense. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cots have additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, extending their use for a longer time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is fairly simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small items. This makes it easier to keep everything organized tidy and neat and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots feature more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer beneath the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other cheap baby cots for sale essentials.

This is a great option for those who have limited space however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep Baby Crib necessities out of sight but within easy reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.