How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you’re expecting a child it’s crucial to select a cot that’s safe and secure for your little one. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby’s warm and comfortable. Look for a breathable soft and comfortable fabric. Make sure that the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps that could create the 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 best one for your child.

It doesn’t matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It should provide proper support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sliding. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not get caught when they move in their sleep.

If you’re not sure which mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Choose breathable mattresses, as they can aid in regulating your body temperature, and are less likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria.

There are a myriad of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with elaborate details and modern, sleek designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is great when you want your little one to wake up feeling fresh and happy!

You’ll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases to accommodate baby’s growth. You can also buy a drop-side for babies who are small or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra peace of mind, search for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and can easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the key specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is essential and a big factor when selecting a cot. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn’t be gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child’s arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, ranging from basic foam to natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers. Some even come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall only if an adult is present, this will prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has an end that is solid. This could hinder airflow and could lead to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends may be safer because they permit more airflow.

If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It’s the most secure option for your baby when they start to crawl and pull themselves upward. When your child is confidently climbing 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 levels. cribs beds is a wonderful security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with the child. Some cots have footplates that can be adjusted, which are ideal for toddlers wanting to stand up in their bed.

When placing your child’s cot, make sure there are no visible hazards. It should be put away from heaters and power points. Also, keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could pose a strangulation risk. If you’re buying second-hand or heirloom furniture Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create a risk.

If you’re unsure about how to use your cot in a safe manner, ask parents around or go to a local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a manual, make sure you go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design, this gorgeous crib will look stunning in your nursery. Our panel members loved the mix of white and natural pine, as well as its clever features, such as drawers under the bed to store all the baby necessities like bedding, nappies and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to build with clear instructions and screws for each section. Additionally, it can be transformed into a toddler bed or desk when your baby grows older (see the product’s description for more details).

The teething rails are among our top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any other protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and preventing them from being suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed and that it’s strong enough to last for four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are generally bigger than cribs and can be converted into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don’t have to worry about buying another bed until they’re ready to move on. They are more expensive than a crib.

If your nursery isn’t big enough, you might be considering a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby’s time in the room or you need a bed that will last longer, you should choose a cot.

A crib isn’t safe for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which deals with the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of cot mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together to ensure your baby doesn’t fall off.

Stores

Whether you’re a first-time parent or an experienced one, the amount of stuff that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it’s crucial to think about the storage options when you choose the right crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted to a toddler or a small single bed, which can extend their use for a longer time.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins, dummies and other small objects. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is a desired feature that is found in some cots. This can keep your baby from chewing on the wood, which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal for storing toys, blankets, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea for when you’re in a tight space, you must keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase an additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding since sheets and mattresses that are oval aren’t usually included in the cot itself.

This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful 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 still easily accessible. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler’s crib when your child’s ready.