Is a cot with a drop side safe?
Short answer: The Lullaby Trust notes that cots should no longer have a side that fully drops down. If buying second-hand, check the design carefully.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Check the internal size and buy a mattress that fits with no gaps.
- Adjustable base heights let you lower the mattress as your baby learns to sit and stand.
- Teething rails protect the top rails from little teeth.
What the guidance says
- Bedside cribs: look for BS EN 1130:2019.
- Cots and travel cots: look for BS EN 716-1:2017.
Related questions
What is a cot?
A framed baby bed with fixed sides, usually taking a 120 x 60cm mattress.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Coleby Space Saver Cot
- Bantam Space Saver Cot - Warm Grey
- Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot in Warm Grey
- Hartley Classic Cot
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
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Sources
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.