How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a child it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides, instead of drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this basic but elegant coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It has three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort


The most comfortable cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a breathable, soft fabric. Make sure that the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could pose a risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are many types of mattresses available, including coils springs, foam, and even natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to determine the ideal mattress for your child.

No matter if you select a standard or convertible cot, the primary factor to comfort is a good-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. The same is true for the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely fixed to the frame, so that your child isn't stuck in them while they move during sleep.

Ask recommended cribs and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Choose breathable mattresses, as they aid in regulating your body temperature and less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from that include traditional sleighs with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is perfect when you want your baby to wake up feeling fresh and content!

Most cots come with drawers underneath to store items, teething rails to protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also buy a drop-side for infants who are small or have medical conditions that make it hard to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is found in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is essential and a big consideration when choosing a bed. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gaps between it and the cot/cot beds edges or sides (big gaps can keep your child's head from being caught in the arms). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of different materials including foam and natural materials that are great for allergy sufferers. Some even have an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down when an adult is in the room. This can prevent accidental release. Avoid placing your cot against a wall if it has a solid end. This could hinder airflow and could cause death in the coffin. Recent research suggests that slatted edges could be safer because they allow for more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side, opt for this as it is the most secure option when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots feature a feature where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child which is extremely useful and is a safety measure. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their beds.

When you place your child's cot be sure that there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from any heaters or power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're not sure how to use your cot safely consult other parents or visit a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before you begin using it, and follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed, with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was awed by the combination of natural and white wood, as well as the innovative features like under-bed storage drawers for everything needed by babies, such as bedding, nappies, and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to build, with clear instructions and screws for each section. What's more, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product description for more details).

One of our favorite features are the teething rails that protect your little one from bumping their head against the side of the cot or any other protruding parts of the cot, such as a handle or a corner post. They also help stop them chewing on the wood, preventing them from being trapped. There's also a drop-side to make it easier for parents to reach their newborn. We love that the cot can be converted into a toddler bed and that it's built to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to transition. However, they are more expensive than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery isn't big enough, you might want to consider a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan to spend a significant portion of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards set by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements of baby mattress cots) it is not safe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your child from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of things a baby needs is staggering. It is important to think about storage when selecting a cot. A number of cots have additional storage options such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.

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

A few cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to store muslins, dummies and other small items. This allows you to keep everything organised tidy, neat and tidy and also looks amazing. Being able to access these items will make it much easier for parents to feed their baby.

Another thing to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed in an older style and have a huge under-bed storage drawer which 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 may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding because oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed an exquisite example of Scandi style at its finest. It features a huge under-bed storage area that is ideal to keep all baby necessities out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled pieces and clear instructions made it easy to assemble our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed when your child is ready, meaning it's a good investment too.