How to Choose the best cot bed Cot Beds for Your Baby

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

This minimalist, stylish coffin is our top choice from the Anyday range 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 crib newborn cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft, airy fabric, and ensure that the mattress is snug to prevent any gaps which could cause an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses available on the market including coil springs, foam, natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research before deciding on the right one for your baby's needs.

If you choose an ordinary or convertible cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which must be secured and not sagging or bent. The slats must also be securely attached to the frame, so your child isn't caught in them when moving in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations or look at online reviews. Make sure you choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with ornate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bold primary colours which is perfect for those who want their little one to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!

You'll find most cots have an under-bed drawer for storage and teething rails to guard your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and adjustable height bases for infant growth. You can also purchase an extra drop-side for babies that aren't big or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is right. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can restrict the child's arms or head). Make sure the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick could increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your cot features drop-sides, ensure that it is locked and in the up position.

A drop side should be allowed to fall only when an adult is present; to prevent accidental releases. If your cot has a solid end, avoid placing it against the wall because it wirate sets of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed when your child gets older (see product description for more details).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, such as the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's strong enough to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the main specifications below each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid buying another bed when they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you might be considering the possibility of 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 room, or if 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 as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other important elements in baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats must not be too far apart to prevent your baby from falling out.

Storage

No matter if 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 think about storage options when selecting the right crib bed. There are a variety of cheap cots that have additional storage solutions available such as drawers in the under-bed or a coordinating cot top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their usability for longer.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who prefer an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of a single side panel. This 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 makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for them to feed their baby.

A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood which could cause them irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great option if you're running out of space, you must be aware that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may need to buy a separate mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh-style cot bed a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best cot beds. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect to keep baby's essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.