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

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that will provide safety and security for your baby. 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 cot bed sales from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the ideal mattress for your child.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible the mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote a healthy posture. The slats must be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations or look at online reviews. Select mattresses that are breathable, since they will aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to hold bacteria.

In terms of style there's a broad selection, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours, which is ideal when you want your baby to wake up bright and happy!

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

Choose a cot beds for sale that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and can easily be transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. This information is 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. Make sure the mattress is snugly fitted, with no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be permitted to fall when an adult is in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall as it will block airflow and could cause death in the coffin. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature an option where the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth which is extremely convenient and an added security measure. Some cots feature adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who like to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there is no obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and power points, windows, curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing second-hand or heirloom furniture be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could be removed and pose danger.

If you're unsure of how to use your cot safely, ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you read it before using it and follow all the instructions.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery cots. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural wood and white, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies, and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child gets older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favourite features is the teething rails, which shield your baby from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, like a handle or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. It also features drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be converted into a toddler bed and that it's strong enough to last for up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the specifications that are listed under each product.

cot sets beds are typically larger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds when your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready to transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib could be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space. However, should your baby be expected to spend much of their time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib sets.

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 mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. It's crucial to think about storage when choosing a cot-bed. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some can even be adapted into a toddler or small single bed, which can extend their usefulness for a longer period of time.

Some cots can be transformed into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

A few cot beds have 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 beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail that comes with some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots feature a more traditional design and have a huge storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You might need to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot is stunning illustration of Scandi style at its best. It features a huge under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.