Baby cot: how to choose the right one?

Baby cot: how to choose the right one?

Choosing a cot for your baby is a decision filled with emotions… and questions. Because every child and every parent is unique, and because the first months are full of discoveries and doubts, it’s completely natural to want the very best for your little one, without always knowing exactly what you need.

In this article, we guide you step by step to help you make an informed choice. Safety, comfort, materials and standards to look out for - we explain everything you need to know so your baby can sleep peacefully, and you can rest easy too.

 

Which cot for your baby’s of first months?

The first months with a newborn are often shaped by feeds, night-time wake-ups, unexpected naps… and a real need for softness. To support your baby during their very first moments of life, choosing the right sleeping space plays an essential role. It needs to be safe, comfortable, and suited both to your baby’s age and to your family’s daily routine.

 

From birth to six months: the need for closeness and reassurance

 

During the first weeks, babies naturally seek the sensations they knew before birth: a cosy, enclosed space, familiar sounds, and the reassuring presence of their parents. If you would like to choose a compact sleeping option that fits easily into your bedroom, there are two possibilities to consider.

  • The co-sleeping cot: a reassuring solution for the first months. Attached to the parents’ bed, a co-sleeping cot keeps your baby close to you while still offering them their own dedicated sleeping space. It makes night-time wake-ups easier, especially during breastfeeding periods.
  • The crib: thanks to its compact size, usually 40 x 90 cm or 45 x 90 cm, a crib creates a safe, cocoon-like environment. It limits wide movements and helps your baby feel gently contained, which can reduce wake-ups caused by the startle reflex.

The good news is that you no longer have to choose, thanks to Petite Amélie’s 2-in-1 crib and co-sleeping option.

 

Berceau cododo blanc et bois installé dans une chambre bébé douce et naturelle, avec mobile en peluche et décoration lumineuse en forme de nuage.

 

From birth to two years: the classic cot with bars

 

More spacious than a crib, a baby cot can be used from the very first weeks and for many months to come. It provides a stable and secure sleeping space, while still allowing light and air to circulate freely.

Standard models, measuring 60 x 120 cm, offer enough room for your child to move safely. A height-adjustable mattress base is especially practical, as it allows you to adapt the sleeping position as your baby grows, while protecting your back. Make sure the cot complies with the EN 716 standard. Meeting this standard ensures a safe and secure cot, with correctly spaced bars, no risk of trapping, non-toxic finishes, and properly sized sides.

 

Lit bébé ovale en bois couleur noyer, installé dans une chambre douce et naturelle avec décoration murale en forme de lune et poisson, et un cheval à bascule licorne.

 

From birth to six years: the convertible cot

 

For parents looking for a long-lasting, practical and cost-effective solution, a convertible baby cot in a 70 x 140 cm size is an excellent option. Thanks to its more generous dimensions compared to a standard 60 x 120 cm cot, it offers a more comfortable sleeping space and can be used until around six years of age.

This type of cot is designed to grow with your child. At first, it is used as a secure cot with bars for babies, featuring an adjustable mattress base to protect parents’ backs. Later on, when your child becomes more independent, the cot can be transformed into a child’s bed. The bars can be removed or replaced with a small safety guard, allowing your child to get in and out of bed independently and safely.

By choosing a convertible cot, parents avoid the need to purchase several pieces of furniture over time. This two-in-one piece combines aesthetics, functionality and value, while creating a reassuring and familiar environment for your child.

 

Lit enfant en bois couleur cocoa avec barrière de sécurité et tiroir de rangement, installé dans une chambre lumineuse décorée sur le thème des animaux.

 

How to choose a baby cot?

Every family has its own routines, but certain criteria should always be checked before buying a cot for your baby. Here are the essentials.

 

Safety standards to know

To avoid any risk, make sure the cot fully complies with the standard that corresponds to its type. EN 1130:2019 and AC:2020 apply to cribs and co-sleeping cots, while EN 716 applies to cots with bars.

At Petite Amélie, all our cots are designed in strict accordance with these European standards, to offer your baby a safe and peaceful sleeping environment.

 

Healthy and natural materials

A good baby cot is also a piece of furniture designed with your child’s wellbeing and the environment in mind.

  • Choose solid wood or low-VOC panels.
  • Opt for water-based paints and varnishes, free from solvents.
  • Look for FSC or PEFC certifications.

 

The right mattress

The baby mattress plays a key role in your baby’s sleep. It should be firm, fit the cot perfectly, and be covered only with a suitable fitted sheet. No other items such as cot bumpers, blankets or pillows should be added to the sleeping space.

 

Matelas bébé blanc à housse matelassée et respirante, conçu pour offrir un soutien ferme et confortable

 

Which baby cot suits your daily routine?

 

Every family is unique, and the choice of cot should adapt to your lifestyle and rhythm.

 

If you are breastfeeding or getting up often at night

A co-sleeping cot or a crib placed close to the parents’ bed will be your best ally. It allows you to feed your baby easily without getting up, while reassuring them with your presence.

 

If your baby has their own room from birth

A cot with bars helps create a reassuring cocoon in their room, while ensuring safety.

 

If you are short on space

A compact crib or a convertible cot will be ideal. You avoid multiplying furniture and make the most of every square metre.

 

What you need to know for settling your baby to sleep

 

Sleeping position

Your baby should sleep on their back, on a firm mattress, with no pillow or blanket. This is the safest position and is recommended by healthcare professionals.

 

A healthy and calming environment

Your baby’s room should be calm, clean and well ventilated.

  • Ideal temperature: 18 to 20 °C
  • Air the room every day
  • Avoid fragrances, scented candles or essential oils

 

A gentle transition to their own room

If you keep your baby close to you during the first months, here are a few tips to help prepare the move to their own room.

  • Start with naps in their room.
  • Wait until their routine is more settled.
  • Avoid combining this change with other major milestones such as starting solids or weaning.

 

Choosing a cot for your baby is much more than a simple equipment decision. It is about thinking of their comfort, their safety and your needs as parents. Whether you choose a crib, a cot with bars or a convertible cot, the most important thing is to create a reassuring environment that suits your baby’s rhythm and your own. By following a few simple guidelines and trusting your instincts, you will make the best choices to support your child’s gentle nights.

 

Lit bébé en bois couleur noyer avec barrière de sécurité, installé dans une chambre lumineuse au style doux et minimaliste.

 

Frequently asked questions about baby cots

 

Can you place a newborn directly in a cot with bars?

Yes, as long as the cot meets safety standards and the mattress fits perfectly.

 

Until what age can you use a classic crib or a co-sleeping cot?

Generally until four to six months, or as soon as your baby starts to roll over or pull themselves up.

 

Which mattress should you choose?

A firm, breathable mattress that fits the cot’s dimensions perfectly, covered with a simple fitted sheet.

 

How can you make your baby’s cot safe?

Use a firm mattress, do not add any soft accessories, check manufacturing standards, and always place your baby on their back to sleep.

 

Convertible or classic cot: which should you choose?

A classic cot is ideal for the first two years. A convertible cot is a long-lasting solution if you plan to use it for several years.