How to Choose the Best Cot Bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This slick and stylish coffin is our top rated cots pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot newborn cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a variety of mattresses available including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's requirements.

No matter if you select a convertible or standard cot, the primary factor to comfort is a mattress of high-quality that is supportive and promotes healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child doesn't get trapped in them while moving in their sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online cots reviews for suggestions. Choose breathable mattresses, as they will help regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect when you want your child to wake up bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for baby growth. You can even buy a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a best crib for newborn. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps betf you're unsure of what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for advice or attend a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you start using it, and be sure to follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the combination of white and natural wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also easy to construct, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a bed for toddlers and a desk as your baby gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your baby from bumping their head on the cot's side or any protruding part of the cot, like handles or a corner post, and which can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We are thrilled that it can 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 specifications below for each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed when your child is ready to move up. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require a bed that will last longer, you should opt for a cot.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall out.

Storage

The amount of baby stuff you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. Some cots come with additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed into a toddler bed or a single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of a design. The conversion is easy and requires only the removal of a single side panel. This will allow parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.

A few cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. The ease of access to these items makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the cot's wooden structure, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with a more traditional design and come with a large storage drawer under the bed, which is perfect for clothes, toys blankets, baby necessities.

While this is a great idea for when you're in a tight space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage compartment that's ideal to keep all baby necessities out of sight but still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed when your child's ready.