Cots and cribs buying guide

Buying the right cot is a hugely important decision. Whilst the main objective is for your baby to sleep comfortably, it's just as important that they sleep safely.

Moses baskets and cribs

For newborn babies weighing up to 13lbs (6kg), a Moses baskets or crib is ideal to keep them snug until they become more active.

Moses baskets are useful if you want to keep your baby near you and normally require a stand . Made from lightweight wicker or palm and fitted with strong handles, which makes them easy to carry around. You can also pick up a rocking stand to go with it.

Cribs are usually made from natural or painted wood and incorporate a swinging or gliding mechanism to help soothe your baby to sleep.

Cots

Although Cots are suitable for babies from day one, you may wish to wait to use until your baby grows out of their Moses basket or crib. Cots have many useful features, including:

Adjustable mattress height

The position of the Mattresses can be changed according to your baby's age, with the highest position perfect for easy access to your newborn and the lowest position designed for older babies that can stand.

Fixed rail

Fixed rail cots are good value for money and safe too, as the side rails cannot be accidentally shifted.

Drop side

These cots have a special mechanism that allows you to raise or lower the side of the cot in one hand, while holding your baby in the other.

Teething rails

Once babies start teething, they can tend to chew anything in reach. For this reason, the railings of most cots are made from clear, non-toxic plastic to help protect their gums.

Castors

These make it easier to move your cot around. Cots that have castors usually have two or four castors, two of which should be locked when the cot is in place.

Cot beds

These are slightly larger than cots and can be converted into beds. This adaptability gives the Cot bed a longer life and makes them better value for money.

Travel cots

These cots are usually much lighter than their standard counterparts, and are specifically designed for folding down (and sometimes even stored in a bag) for easy carrying.

Keeping your cot safe

Cots should always be kept away from windows, radiators and other heat sources. The cot shouldn't be placed under shelves or pictures (or anything else that could fall), and don't forget to keep the cot well away from anything your baby could grab hold of.

Cot changer

A Cot Changer is basically a tray that fits over the rails of your baby's cot. The baby is then placed on the changer while he or she is either washed or has their nappy changed. It's a good idea to place a changing mat on the tray before you use it as this will make things a lot more comfortable for your baby.