How to Choose the Best cheap cot beds Beds for Your Baby

When you are expecting your first child it is essential to choose a cot that can provide security and safety for your baby. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.

This simple but stylish coffin is our top pick from the Anyday range of John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars and storage drawers. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Look for a soft and comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose an suffocation threat. There are many mattresses available - foam, coil springs and natural materials for allergy sufferers. So do your research and choose the one that is suitable for your baby's needs.

If you choose a convertible or standard cot, the key to satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that is supportive and encourages healthy posture. The slats must be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame so that your child does not get caught when they move during sleep.

If you're unsure of the mattress to buy, ask your family members or friends or look up online reviews for suggestions. Look for ones that are breathable, as they'll help regulate temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to style there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they wake up.

The majority of cots have a drawer for storage underneath teething rails to prevent your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even buy a drop side for smaller babies or those who have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

Choose a cheap cot beds that meets the strict UK safety standards and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's bed when it's time. Look for this information in the product description or in the key specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a bed. The mattress should fit snugly and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and 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, ranging from basic foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot features a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.

A drop side should be allowed to go down when an adult is present, this prevents accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge do not place it against the wall because this will restrict airflow and may contribute to the death of a coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side you should choose this because it will be safest when your child starts to crawl and pull themselves up. If your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's the time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have an option where the base can be raised to three different heights, so that it will grow with your child - this is very convenient and an added security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their beds.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check whether there is no visible danger - it should be away from heaters and power points, windows, blind cords and curtains (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They can come off and cause danger.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for help or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.

Style

This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh design will look amazing in your nursery. The panel was impressed with the mix of natural and white wood and the clever features such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold everything essential for babies, including bedding, nappy and a wide selection of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together with clear instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler desk and bed as your child grows older (see product description for more information).

The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your baby from hitting their head against the crib's side or any protruding part of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing the wood and also preventing them from suffocating. There's also an opening that can be removed to allow you to access your newborn. We love that it can be converted to an infant bed, and that it's built to last for four years. It also complies with strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.

Cot beds can be turned into toddler beds when your child is old enough. This allows you to not have to buy an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to move up. However, they can be more expensive upfront than a crib that is standard.

If your nursery is very small, a crib may be the best choice for you, as it's smaller and occupies less space, but if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.

If a cot does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats should not be too far apart, to ensure that your child doesn't fall off.

Stores

If you're a new parent or a seasoned one, the amount of stuff a baby needs is staggering. It's important to consider storage when choosing a cot-bed. Some cheap cots have additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their usage.

Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed as shown on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin cot sale. This is a great choice for those who prefer a less rigid design as the process of conversion is easy and only requires the removal of one side panel. This will allow parents to reduce the expense of an additional bed.

Some cot beds are equipped with hanging rails that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies, as well as other small things. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. The ease of access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their child.

Another desirable feature to look for is a teething rail which is included in a few cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which can cause irritation. Some cots come with more traditional designs and include a large storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for toys, clothes, blankets and other baby essentials.

This is a great choice when space is a problem however, you will need to purchase a drawer on your own. You may have to purchase bedding and a mattress separately, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot from Stokke is a lovely example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep baby essentials out of sight but easily reachable. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready. This means it's a good investment too.