How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child, it is important to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides, rather than drop-sides. This will be in line with UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best crib for newborn cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create a risk of being suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whether you opt for best Baby cots an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbour bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in bright primary colours to make your child feel cheerful and cheerful when they wake up.

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the description or in the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a cot. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gap between it and the cot's bed's sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended since they could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to fall when an adult is present, this will prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they permit more airflow.

If your best cot bed has a fixed side you should choose this because it's safer when your baby starts to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have 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. Some cots offers feature footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who love to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, check that there is no visible danger. It should be away from heaters, power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture that is second-hand or an heirloom, check for choking hazards like stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and create danger.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and adhere to the directions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, and its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and an enviable assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. It can also be converted into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

One of our favourite features are the teething rails, which shield your little one from bumping their head against the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post, and which also help stop them chewing on the wood, which prevents them from becoming trapped. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We appreciate that it is able to be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last up to four years. It also met strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds in the event that your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid buying an entirely new bed when your child's ready to go up. However, they are more expensive than a standard crib.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should consider a crib.

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 deals with mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a coordinating top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies along with other small items. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also 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 that is available with some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and include a large drawer under the bed that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.

This is a great choice for those who have limited space, but you will have to purchase a drawer separately. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to assemble our panel. It's suitable for infants from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.