How to Choose the Best Cots in the UK
With its sleek minimalist design and warm oak finish this cot from Silver Cross looks stylish in any nursery. It is also kept tidy with a drawer as well as a handy anti bite plastic strip on the top rails.
This smart crib could be the solution for your fussy baby. It makes soothing sounds that mimic the mother's womb.
Size
A cot that is suitable for your child is the ideal size to allow your baby space to grow without weighing down the nursery. The standard UK cot size is 70cm x 140cm. This should be adequate to accommodate most infants until they are around three years old. However, some cots feature curved corners or other features that can create problems with the fitting of a mattress, therefore it is worth double checking the dimensions of your cot before you purchase.
You can find cots at a variety of high-street stores such as Dunelm or Ikea. A lot of them also offer a return policy, which means you can return the cot if it does not meet your needs. It's also a good idea to shop online, as you can get a better idea of the dimensions of each cot and the way it will look in your nursery.
If you are seeking a high-quality cot that is of high-end quality, the SNOO Sleeper Smart is a great option. The cot will listen to your baby's cry and gently rock them to sleep, simulating the sounds of the womb. This technology will help your baby to get a good night's rest. It can be used in any crib or cot. great crib is a great option for infants or babies with breathing difficulties and it can track their sleep cycles, which will help you understand the habits of your little one.
Stokke Sleepi Cot is another fantastic option. The cot is minimalistic, constructed of solid beech, comes with a removable panel that can transform it into a bed for toddlers. It comes with a variety mattress bases, so you can adjust the height of your child's sleeping area to suit their needs. It's also a great choice for smaller rooms or ceilings that slope and our panel found it simple to assemble.
Another budget-friendly cot is the Elementary cot from John Lewis' Anyday collection. It's available in a variety of finishes, ranging from white to dark slate grey and is suitable from birth until the time your child is four years old. It comes with three mattress settings that let you easily reach your baby. It can also be transformed into a Toddler Bed by removing the side panels and adding a footboard. The cot is also FSC certified and comes with a mattress included.
Safety
Cots and cot beds are a crucial element of the nursery for your baby, but they must be safe as well. Find a cot that has the code BS EN 716 and that has been certified to meet British safety standards. It should also have a firm flat mattress and not be stuffed with duvets or bumpers that aren't recommended by the Lullaby Trust.
If you're buying a used crib, be sure to verify the date of purchase. Lead paint can be poisonous for infants. Look for indications that the cot has been used, especially along the sides, where a child might rub their hands. This can cause irritation to the skin. Also, make sure to look for any transfer or stickers as these can peel off and pose the risk of choking your baby.
Some cots come with additional features such as teething rails and storage drawers. One of our mum testers was particularly impressed by this model from John Lewis which is both elegant and practical. "It's extremely simple to put together, and has all the pieces labelled alphabetically," she said, adding that it is also one of the most simple cots to transform into a toddler bed. The cot comes with an open drawer that can be used to keep the nursery neat. It also has three heights that are adjustable that allow you to use it for your growing child.
Another consideration is the depth of the cot. Look for a cot that is at a minimum 50cm deep to prevent your child from climbing out as they grow more mobile. There are many options for mattresses for cots that include spring interiors, foam or natural materials if you suffer from allergies. It is also advisable to think about purchasing a cot protector to protect your mattress from stains and spills if you plan to purchase a new cot. It's a good idea to hire an expert to assess the safety of your used cot and repair any damage. It's typically about PS100 but it's well worth the investment for peace of mind.
Style
It's easy to get caught up on safety and spec when purchasing a baby's cot, but don't forget about style. A cot will be in use for a long time, so it's crucial to choose one that suits your baby's room as well as your decor. Luckily, many cots and cot beds are available in a variety of colors and designs that will look great with the furniture or interiors you've selected for your baby's first bedroom.
The Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed illustrates how stylish a crib could be. The drawer under the bed was a feature that made it a winner for high scores from our panel. Teething rails and three adjustable mattress heights also make this cot bed functional and fashionable. Our testers also liked that the cot was simple to construct even though it is in a flatpack, with labelled parts and simple instructions.
Another alternative for a stylish cot is Stokke Sleepi, which combines Scandi style with the practicality of a cot that is able to 'grow' with your child. It can be used from birth as a cot or until your child is five years older, at which point it can be converted into a toddler bed by the removal of a side. Its smooth oval finish and sturdy construction impressed our testers, but the price tag may be a hindrance for some.
A crib is a safe space for your baby to rest during the day and night It is important that you read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and follow them with care to ensure your baby stays comfortable and secure. If you choose a model with bars that are too closely spaced, your baby may become trapped or choke. Also, you should make sure that the mechanism for dropping is secure and doesn't let your child lower it.
If you're buying an cot that converts to a mattress, ensure that it complies with UK safety standards. They are typically BS EN 716 and BS 8509 which have an anti-bite strip on the top of the bars. Most cots and cot beds will include this information in the description of the product or on their website, however If you are concerned you should speak to the seller to confirm.
Convertibility
Some models are built to last for an extended period of time. Most popular cots can be turned into toddler beds or sofas. This allows you to keep using it after the baby stage. They are more expensive because they must support a heavier child for a longer time. However, they are a great investment if you are planning to use them long after your baby is developed.
A cot is also among the most crucial purchases you'll make for your new baby, and it's vital to ensure it meets strict UK safety standards. Examine the BS EN code on the page of the product to confirm. Also, ensure that the base is fully slatted with no gaps on any sides. If it doesn't then you'll have to purchase a new mattress for your bed.
Some cots are equipped with extra features, such as a storage drawer or teething rails. These can save space and make life easier for parents. Some cots are simple put together, which is great in case you're running out of time or you're worried about putting them together. One of our mum testers gave the John Lewis cot-bed as 'easiest to assemble flatpack'. It comes with clear instructions and pictures.
The Boori cot is a different alternative. It has a timeless style and comes in a range of finishes that will fit your nursery. It comes with three adjustable mattress height positions and can be converted to an infant bed by removing the side, and later to a junior bed by the addition of the footboard. It's also available in a range of sizes to fit your room, and one of our test parents reported that hers had lasted through three children.
Stokke Sleepi is another great option. It is an open design that allows it to be expanded into various configurations. The mini model is suitable for use from birth and with the addition of a side it can be transformed into the bed of a toddler. Once your child reaches an older age, you can then upgrade to a junior bed. It's also a top choice for aesthetics, with our panel loving natural finish and smooth oval shape.