How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

This simple but stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress fits snugly, to avoid any gaps that could create the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for Best Cot Beds allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the best one for your baby's requirements.

It doesn't matter if you pick a conventional cot or a convertible the mattress is crucial to ensure your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats must be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely fixed to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose a mattress that is breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion, there's a wide choice, from traditional sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great if you want your child to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your child from chewing on the side of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For added security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a bed. Make sure that the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps could restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure the mattress is firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitablines closely.

Style

With its stunning sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the mix of natural and white wood, as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappies, and an impressive array 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 transformed into a toddler bed or desk as your baby gets older (see the product's description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They prevent your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side to make it easier for you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib may be the best cots for newborns option for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but if your baby is likely to spend a lot of time in their parents' bedroom or you'd like a more long-lasting bed, opt for a crib.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot sales mattresses for baby. The slats shouldn't be too far apart to stop your baby from falling out.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. It's crucial to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options, like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some can be transformed to a toddler or a small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed.

A number of cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This helps to keep everything organized tidy and neat - and it also looks amazing. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another feature worth looking for is a toothing rail which is included with cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and have a huge under-bed storage drawer that is ideal for storing blankets, toys clothes, and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you must keep in mind that you'll have to purchase an extra for the drawer. You may also have to buy a new mattress and bedding since oval mattresses and sheets aren't usually included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a beautiful example of the Scandi-style at its finest and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's perfect for keeping all those baby necessities out of sight but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed when your child is ready.