How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and secure for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides instead of drop-sides. This will comply with UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish crib is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It's also easy to assemble with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot newborn cot beds will keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could create a suffocation risk. There are a variety of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and select the best one for your baby's needs.

Whether you opt for an ordinary or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and promotes a healthy posture. The slats need to be firmly attached, and not sagging. The slats should also be firmly connected to the frame so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with vibrant primary colours which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling fresh and content!

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who aren't big or have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.

Choose a cot that is in compliance with the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it is time. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a cot. Make sure the mattress fits snugly, with no gaps between it and the cot's beds edges or sides (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 recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments.stunning sleigh design This gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white and the clever features like drawers under the bed for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappies and an impressive array of baby clothes. It is also easy to construct, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed 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 most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also features a drop-side to allow you to get access to your baby. We appreciate that the cot bed sales could be converted into a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.

Cot 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. They can be more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you may think about a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However should you be planning to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or you need an item that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

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 the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats should not be too close together, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Storage

Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. This is the reason it's important to consider the storage options when you choose the crib bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, such as drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or small single beds to expand their use.

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

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dolls along with other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents, making it easier for them to feed their baby.

Another desirable feature to look for is a toothing rail that is available with some cots. This can stop your child from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots have more traditional designs and have a huge storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're running out of space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra drawer. You may also need to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style in its finest and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to assemble for our panel. It's suitable for infants as young as birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.