How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child, it's important to choose a cot that will be safe and secure for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish mini cot beds is our top choice from the Anyday range by John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best infant cribs cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available - coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy-sufferers. Do your research to find the best one for your child.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be securely attached and not sagging or bent. The slats should also be securely attached to the frame so that your child doesn't get caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, including traditional sleighs with elaborate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and happy when they wake up.

You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage, teething rails to protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the description of the product and key specifications.

Safety

When choosing a cot, an environment that is safe for sleeping should be a priority. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps could keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Check that it's solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials from foam to natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has drop sides, make sure that it is in the up position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present; to prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against walls if it has a solid end. This could limit airflow, which could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted ends could be safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up. Once your child is standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to move into a junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Some cots have adjustable footplates that are perfect for toddlers who want to stand up.

When you put your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms, make sure to look out for potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're unsure of about how to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby Crib class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of natural and white pine, as well as its innovative features, like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like nappies, bedding, and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed and desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also drop-sides to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to an infant bed, and it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready for the transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a standard crib.

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

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of baby mattress cots) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to prevent your child from falling out.

Stores

Whether you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things the baby will require is immense. It's crucial to think about storage when you choose a cot. Certain cots offer additional storage options, like drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to save money on an additional bed.

Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small things. This makes everything tidy, neat and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items will make it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another important feature that's included in some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in a more traditional style and include a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're short on space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate additional drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those cheap baby cots for sale necessities out of sight but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it easy to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.