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. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

Our top ranked cribs choice is this simple but stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also simple to put together, and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a breathable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to eliminate any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the best one for your cheap baby cots's requirements.

No matter if you choose a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is vital to your comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage an ideal posture. This is also true for the slats, which should be securely attached tots and cots not sagging or bent. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For added peace of mind, look for a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description and key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer mattresses in different materials, from foam to natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present - to prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer since they allow for more airflow.

If your cot has a fixed side choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. When your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots also have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

Whenever you place your child in their cot, check that there is no obvious danger - it should be away from heaters, power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're buying furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom be sure to look for any choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create the risk of.

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 a guide be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning 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 drawers under the bed for all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our most loved features is the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any protruding parts of the cot, such as the handle or corner post, and which will also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from getting in danger of being suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which are listed 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 new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you want a longer-lasting bed, consider a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. This is why it's essential to think about the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is easy and only requires the removal of a side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.

A variety of cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This helps to keep everything organised, neat and tidy and looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

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

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must remember that you will have to purchase an extra drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. 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 made into a toddler bed once your child is ready. This means it's also a good value.