How to Choose the best crib for newborn Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select the right cot that is safe and Baby Cot secure for your little one. Choose a cot that has fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

Our top pick is this simple yet stylish cot from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails and storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best rated cribs cot bed will keep infants comfortable and warm. Look for a soft, comfortable fabric. Also, make sure that the mattress fits snugly to avoid any gaps, which could create an suffocation threat. There are a range of mattresses on the market - foam, coil springs and other natural materials suitable for allergy sufferers - so do your research and choose the right one for your baby's needs.

If you choose a standard or convertible cot, the most important thing to ensure satisfaction is a high-quality mattress that provides proper support and encourages healthy posture. This is also true for the slats, which must be firmly attached and not bent or sagging. The slats should also be firmly attached to the frame to ensure that your child does not be caught when they move in their sleep.

Ask your friends and family for recommendations, or read online reviews. Choose a mattress that is ventilated, as they'll aid in maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

When it comes to fashion there's a broad selection from classic sleigh styles with elaborate detailing to sleek, modern designs. Some are painted in vibrant primary colors to make your child feel joyful and happy when they awake.

The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing the sides of the cot, and height bases that can be adjusted to accommodate baby's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or have medical conditions that make it difficult to bend over.

For extra security, opt for a cot that meets the stringent UK safety standards and will easily transform into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. Look for this information in the product description or key specs.

Safety

When selecting a cot, the safety of your child's sleep should be the top priority. The mattress should be snugly fitted 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). Check that it's firm and thin - thicker mattresses aren't recommended because they can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies offer a choice of mattresses, from simple foam to natural materials for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop side, ensure it is in the upward position and locked securely.

A drop side should be allowed to fall only if an adult is present; this will prevent accidental release. Do not place your cot against a wall if it has an end that is solid. This can restrict airflow, which can lead to coffin death. The latest research suggests that slatted ends may be safer since they allow for more airflow.

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

Some cots come with an option where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will expand with your child - this is very useful and is a security measure. Other cots come with footplates that are adjustable, which is ideal for toddlers wanting to sit up in their bed.

If you are putting your child in their cot, check that there isn't any obvious danger - it must be kept away from heaters and windows, power points and blind cords and baby cot curtains (these are a strangulation hazard). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece Be sure to check for potential hazards to choking such as stickers and transfers that may be removed and create danger.

If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, ask other parents for help or take part in a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot comes with a guide ensure that you go through it before using it and follow all the directions.

Style

With its beautiful sleigh design This stunning cot bed will look great in your nursery. The panel was awed by the mix of natural wood and white as well as the clever features such as drawers under the bed for all cheap baby cots essentials, like bedding, nappy and an impressive array of baby clothes. It's also simple to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It could 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 top ranked cribs features. They stop your baby from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding part of the crib, like the handle or corner post. They also stop them from chewing on the wood and preventing them from suffocating. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that the cot can be transformed into a toddler bed, and that it's built to last for up to four years. It also meets the strict UK safety standards, which you'll find in the specifications that are listed under each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds when your child is ready, allowing you to avoid purchasing a bed until they're ready to transition. They may cost more than cribs.

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

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 important elements of baby cot mattresses. The slats must not be too close together to ensure that your child doesn't get tossed out.

Storage

The amount of baby gear you'll need is a mess regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. This is why it's essential to consider the storage options when you choose the cot bed. Certain cots offer additional storage options, including drawers beneath the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots are able to be converted into an infant bed or a small single bed to increase their usage.

Some cots can be converted into day beds, like the one shown here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is a great option for those who like a more flexible design. The conversion is simple and requires only the removal of ONE side panel. It also lets parents save money on a separate bed purchase.

A number of cot beds come with a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dolls and other small objects. This keeps everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks fantastic. Having easy access to these items makes it much easier for parents to feed their baby cots on sale.

Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that is available with some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot, which could cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and come with a large under-bed storage drawer that is ideal to store blankets, toys, clothes and other baby essentials.

While this is a great idea if you're in a tight space, it's important to keep in mind that you'll need to buy a separate extra for the drawer. It is also possible to buy a new mattress and bedding as oval mattresses and sheets aren't typically included in the cot itself.

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 necessities out of sight but within easy reach. The alphabetically labeled components and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It is suitable for babies as young as birth and can be made into a toddler's bed once your child is ready.