How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you are expecting your first child it is crucial to select a cot which can provide security and safety for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish cot is our top pick from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It has three mattress height positions, teething rails and storage drawers. It is also easy to put together and comes with clear instructions.
Comfort
The best cot beds keep babies comfy and cosy. Look for a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to avoid any gaps, which could pose an suffocation threat. There are a variety of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers, so do your research and choose the
Best Cot bed one for your baby's requirements.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot the mattress is vital to your comfort. It must provide the right support and encourage an upright posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats need to be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child will not get caught when they move during sleep.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they will help you regulate your body temperature and 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 sleek, modern designs. Some are even painted in bold primary colours, which is ideal for those who want their little one to wake up bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate your child's growth. You can even buy drop sides for small babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult for them to bend over.
To ensure your peace of mind, search for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily transform into a toddler bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.
Safety
A safe sleeping environment is an essential consideration when choosing a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there shouldn't be 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 too thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a range of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some come with anti-microbial treatment. If your crib has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and secured.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This can prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid bottom be sure to avoid placing it against the wall as it can block airflow and could cause coffin death. According to the latest research, slatted end cots are safer since they allow for greater airflow.
If your crib has a fixed edge choose this option as it is the most secure option when your baby starts to crawl and then pull themselves up. Once your child is confidently standing and climbing, this is a sign that they're ready to transition into the junior bed.

Some cots are equipped with a feature that allows the base to be raised to three different levels. This is a great security measure that allows the cot of your child to grow with their needs. Other cots come with adjustable footplates, which are great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.
When putting your child's cot in the crib ensure there are no visible hazards. It should be placed away from heaters and power points. Also be sure to keep it away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. All of these could create strangulation risks. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any potential hazards to your child's safety such as labels and transfers. They may peel off and cause danger.
If you're unsure about how to use your cot safely you can ask other parents or attend an local NCT New Baby course for support and advice. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it prior to using it and follow all the instructions.
Style
This stunning cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look stunning in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of white and natural wood as well as the clever features like under-bed storage drawers that can hold all baby essentials, like bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be converted 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 top features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also prevent children from chewing on the wood, and prevent them from getting suffocated. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your baby. We appreciate that it is able to be converted to a toddler bed, and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. These are listed in the specifications below for each product.
Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready, allowing you to avoid buying another bed when they're ready to move on. However, they can be more expensive than a crib that is standard.
If your nursery isn't big enough, you might think about the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and requires less space. However, if you plan on spending a lot of your baby's time in your room, or if you need a bed that lasts longer, you should opt for a crib.
A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it doesn't meet the strict UK safety standards as outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used and other key elements of
cheap cot bed mattresses for baby. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your baby won't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby stuff you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a new mom or an experienced one. This is the reason it's important to consider storage options when choosing the right crib bed. Some
cots 4 tots have additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some are even able to be converted into a toddler or small single bed, increasing their use for a longer time.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an excellent option for those who like an edgier design. The conversion is simple and only requires the removal of one side panel. This lets parents reduce the expense of the purchase of a separate bed.
Some cot beds have a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks great. These items are easily accessible to parents and make it easier for parents to feed their child.
A teething rail is another desired feature that is found in some
cots and tots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed in more traditional designs and include a large under-bed storage drawer which is ideal to store blankets, toys clothes, and other baby necessities.
While this is a great option if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will require a separate additional drawer. You may have to purchase an additional mattress and bedding since oval sheets and mattresses don't come with the cot.
This sleigh-style cot bed is a beautiful illustration of Scandi style at its best. It has a spacious under-bed storage area that is ideal for keeping all baby essentials away from view but easily accessible. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies as young as birth, and can be made into a toddler's crib when your child is ready.