How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

Our top pick is this simple yet elegant cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and storage drawers. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The most comfortable cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose a suffocation risk. There are many types of mattresses available - coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the best one for your child.

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

Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they can help you regulate your body temperature and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to choose from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is great for those who want their child to wake up bright and cheerful!

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can even buy drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and will easily convert into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is found in the description of the product and the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is an essential aspect to consider when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot/cot bed sides or ends (big gaps can restrict your child's head or arms). Make sure it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't advised because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers and some even have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to go down only when an adult is present, to prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against the wall if it is a solid end. This can hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the most recent research, cots with slatted edges may be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It will be the most secure choice for your baby as they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature that allows the base to be raised up to three different levels. This is a fantastic security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with them. Some cots have adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there is no visible danger - it must be away from heat sources or power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these are a strangulation hazard). When purchasing second-hand furniture, or heirlooms to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and create a risk.

If you're not sure how to use your cot in a safe manner consult other parents or visit the local NCT New Baby Crib course for assistance and guidance. If your cot comes with an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, tots and cots follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white wood and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers for everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a huge selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a bed for toddlers and a desk when your child gets older (see the product description for details).

One of our favorite features is the teething rails which protect your little one from bumping their head on the side of the cot or any protruding part of the cot, such as the handle or corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, which prevents them from being in danger of being suffocated. There's also a drop-side to allow easier access to your infant. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and that it is sturdy enough to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds are usually larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about purchasing a new bed until they're ready for the transition. However, they may be pricier upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is small, you may want to consider the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and occupies less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your bedroom or if you require an item that lasts longer, 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 outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

The amount of Baby Cot stuff you need is overwhelming, whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available like drawers under the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin cheap cot bed. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds have hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dolls and other small things. This helps to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents when feeding their infant.

A teething rail is a important feature that's included in some cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots feature an older style and include a large storage drawer under the bed. It is perfect for toys, clothes blankets, baby essentials.

This is a great solution if space is an issue but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a beautiful example of Scandi-style at its best crib and features a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep all the baby necessities out of sight but easily reachable. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child's ready.