How to Choose the best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose the right cot that is safe and secure for your child. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could cause a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an ideal posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are decorated with bright primary colors to make your child feel joyful and cheerful as they awake.

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that are small or suffer from health issues that make it hard to bend over.

Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily converted into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Check that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in different materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be permitted down when an adult is in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is set on one side, choose it. It's the safest option for your child when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to upgrade to a junior bed.

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels in order to expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who want to stand up.

When putting your child's cot in the crib 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. These can all pose a strangulation risk. If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose a risk.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for help or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, read it carefully before using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for details).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding parts of the cot, like the handle or corner post. They also help stop them 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 parents to reach their newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to an infant bed, and it is sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

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

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best baby cots option for you as it is smaller and occupies less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other essential elements of baby mattress cots to tots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Stores

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a new mom or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler or small single bed, extending their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be converted into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer an unstructured design since the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save on the cost of a separate bed.

A few cot beds feature a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins, Dummies, and other small items. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks great. Having easy access to these items will make it much easier for parents when feeding their baby.

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

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may need to buy an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect to keep all the baby essentials out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's a good investment too.