How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it is essential to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps that could create a risk of suffocation. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a standard cot or a convertible, a good mattress is essential to ease of use. It should provide adequate support and promote an upright posture. The same applies to the slats. They should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not become caught in the movement during sleep.

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

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice from classic sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in vibrant primary colours which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up bright and content!

You'll find most cots have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even purchase drop sides for small infants or those with health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Find a cot that meets the strict UK safety standards and can easily be transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. This information can be found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Check that it's firm and thin. Thicker mattresses aren't advised as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, make sure it is locked and in the up pour panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything necessary for babies, including nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent your child from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from getting suffocated. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted into an infant bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds when your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They may cost more than cribs.

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

A crib isn't safe 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 covers mattresses' thicknesses, materials, and other important elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Stores

The amount of baby equipment you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one. It's important to consider storage when selecting a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options such as drawers in the under-bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small cot beds single bed to extend their usage.

Some cots are able to be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is easy and only requires the removal of ONE side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a bed purchase.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies along with other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail which is included with some cots. This can help to prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is perfect for storing toys, blankets clothing, and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer on your own. You might need to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot sale bed an exquisite illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.