How to Choose the Best cot for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will provide safety and security for your baby. Look for a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides), which comply with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, elegant coffin is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and a storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep baby's warm and comfortable. Find a comfortable soft, soft fabric. Make sure the mattress is snug to eliminate any gaps that could cause the risk of the mattress becoming suffocated. There are a variety of mattresses on the market including coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the best one for your baby's requirements.

It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is essential to comfort. It should provide adequate support and encourage a healthy posture. The slats need to be secured and not sagging. The slats should also be securely connected to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move during sleep.

Ask your family and friends for recommendations, or read online reviews. Look for ones that are air-conditioned, as they'll help to regulate temperature and are less likely to be a home for bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a variety of styles, from traditional sleigh styles with ornate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel happy and cheerful when they wake up.

Most cots come with an under-bed storage drawer teething rails to prevent your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate the growth of your baby. You can even purchase a drop side for petite babies or those who have health issues that make it difficult to bend over.

To ensure your security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily convert into a toddler bed when the time is right. This information is found in the description of the product and the specifications.

Safety

A secure sleeping space is a must and a major aspect to consider when choosing a cot. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the edges or sides of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps can trap the child's arms or head). Verify that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Thick mattresses could increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer mattresses made of various materials from foam to natural materials that are suitable for those suffering from allergies. Some have anti-microbial treatment. If your cot has drop-sides, ensure that it is secured and in the upward position.

A drop side should only be allowed to drop only if an adult is present - to prevent accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on walls if it has an end that is solid. This could limit airflow, which could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges could be safer as they allow for greater airflow.

If your cot is fixed on one side, choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves upward. If your child is confidently climbing and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots come with a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will grow with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Some cots also have footplates that are adjustable, which is great for toddlers who want to sit up in their bed.

When you place your child's cot ensure there aren't any obvious dangers. It should be placed away from power and heater points. Also make sure it is away from windows, curtains, and blind cords. They all could present a strangulation threat. When buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, make sure to look for any choking hazards such as stickers and transfers. These can peel off and create a risk.

If you are unsure how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for advice or take part in an local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has an instruction manual, read it carefully before you begin using it, and be sure to follow the safety guidelines closely.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style, this gorgeous cot bed will look great in your nursery. Our panel was impressed by the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all those baby essentials like bedding, nappies and a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also easy to assemble, with concise instructions and separate packs of screws for each section. It could also be transformed into a toddler desk or bed as your child grows older (see product description for more details).

The teething rails are one of our favorite features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the crib's side or any protruding portion of the crib, such as the handle or corner post. They also stop children from chewing on the wood and also preventing them from being suffocated. The cot also has drop-sides to allow parents to reach their newborn. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last up to four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the key specs beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be turned into toddler beds once your child is ready which means you don't have to worry about buying another bed until they're ready for the transition. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, you may be considering the possibility of a crib. It is smaller and takes less space. However should you be planning to spend a lot of your baby's time in your room or you need a bed that lasts longer, you should choose a cot.

A cot isn't suitable for babies to sleep in if it does not meet the strict UK safety standards outlined in BS EN 716 and BS 8509, which covers mattress thicknesses, materials and other key elements of cot mattresses for babies. The slats shouldn't be too close together, to ensure that your baby won't fall out.

Storage

No matter if you're a first-time parent or a veteran the amount of items a baby needs is staggering. This is why it's essential to consider storage options when selecting the crib bed. Some cots have additional storage options, including drawers underneath the bed or a top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single beds to expand their use.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great choice for those who prefer more flexible designs as the conversion process is fairly simple and requires just the removal of a side panel. This also allows parents to save money on a separate bed purchase.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins and Dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks beautiful. Having easy access to these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their child.

Another feature worth looking out for is a teething rail that is available with cots. This will help keep your baby from chewing on the wood that can cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer underneath the bed. It is perfect for clothes, toys, blankets and other baby necessities.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to remember that you will need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. You may have to purchase a separate mattress and bedding, as oval sheets and mattresses do not come with the cot.

This sleigh cot bed by Stokke is a stunning example of the Scandi-style at its finest and has a huge under-bed storage drawer that's ideal to keep Baby Cot Bed's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel found it very easy to put together, due to the alphabetically-labelled parts and clear instructions. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.