How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting a baby it is crucial to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot that has fixed sides rather than drop-sides. This will meet UK safety standards.

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

Comfort

The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Choose a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market - foam, coil springs, natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research before deciding on the best infant cribs one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible cot one, a comfortable mattress is crucial to ensure your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an upright posture. The slats should also be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be firmly fixed to the frame, so that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to buy, consult friends and family or check online reviews for recommendations. Make sure you choose a mattress that's ventilated, as they'll aid in to regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

There are a variety of styles to pick from such as traditional sleighs, with ornate details and sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours which is perfect if you want your little one to wake up feeling bright and content!

Most cots come with a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot and adjustable height bases to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase drop sides for small infants or those with medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that complies with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major consideration when choosing a crib. Make sure the mattress is snug and has no gap between it and the cot's bed sides or ends (big gaps can trap your child's head or arms). Verify that the mattress is firm and thin. Mattresses that are too thick could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for crib sets.

If a cot doesn't meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which refers to mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby mattress cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Stores

No matter if you're a first-time parent or an experienced one the amount of items the baby will require is immense. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. There are a variety of cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a top ranked cribs changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the conversion process is simple and involves the removal of a side panel. This allows parents to save money on the purchase of a separate bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, Dummies along with other small items. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Being able to access these items will make it easier for parents when feeding their baby.

A teething rail is an additional desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will help prevent your little one chewing on the wood that could cause 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 option when space is a problem but you'll need to purchase a drawer separately. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a stunning example of Scandi-style in its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's great to keep baby's essentials out of view but easily reachable. Our panel found it very straightforward to put together, thanks to alphabetically labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready, which means it's good value too.