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. A drawer and an anti-bite strip of plastic on the top rails will help keep it neat and tidy.
This crib with smart technology could be the solution for your child who is fussy. It makes soothing sounds that resemble the baby's womb.
Size
best cots for newborns that is the right size strikes a balance between providing your baby with space to grow, and not overcrowding the nursery by a huge bed. The standard UK cot mattress size is 70cm x 140cm which is enough for most babies up to around three years old. However, some cots feature curves or other features that can cause issues with the fitting of a mattress, therefore it is important to double-check the dimensions of your cot before you purchase.
There are a lot of retailers on the high street where you can browse the wide selection of cots. Some include Dunelm and Ikea. Many retailers have the option of a return policy, so you can return the cot that doesn't meet your needs. You can also get a better feel about the size of each cot and how it will fit into your nursery by shopping on the internet.
If you are seeking a high-quality cot, the SNOO Sleeper Smart is a great choice. This cot monitors your baby's crying and responds by gently rocking them to sleep, emulating the sounds of the womb. This technology can help your baby to get a good night's rest. It can be placed in any crib or cot. It's ideal for babies with breathing issues or who are fussy babies. It also tracks their sleep patterns to help you better understand your child's routines.
Stokke Sleepi Cot is another excellent alternative. This minimalistic cot, made from solid beech, features a removable panel that can be transformed into a bed for toddlers. It has a range of mattress bases, which means you can adjust the height of your child’s sleeping area to suit their requirements. It's also a great option for smaller bedrooms or sloped ceilings Our panel found it simple to assemble.
The Elementary cot, from John Lewis' Anyday Collection is a budget-friendly alternative. It comes in a range of finishes from white to dark slate gray, and can be used from birth up until your child is four. It has three mattress settings that let you easily reach your baby. It can also be converted into a Toddler Bed by taking the side panels off and adding an additional footboard. The cot comes with a mattress and is FSC certified.
Safety
Cots and cot beds are an important part of the nursery of your baby's however, 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 have a flat, firm mattress and not be stuffed with duvets or bumpers that aren't suggested.
If you're purchasing a used cot, make sure to determine the age of it. Lead paint can be toxic for babies. Check for indications of wear and tear, especially on the sides where a child may rub their hands as this may cause irritation to the skin. Be sure to look for any stickers or transfers that might peel off, posing the risk of choking your child.
Some cots have extra features such as teething rails or storage drawers. One of our mom testers praised this John Lewis model for being both stylish and functional. It's easy to put together and the pieces are alphabetized," she said. She added that it was also one of the easiest cribs to convert into a toddler bed. The cot also comes with an optional drawer to help keep the nursery organized, and has 3 adjustable heights so you can use it as your baby grows.
Another consideration is the depth of the cot. Choose a cot which is at least 50cm in depth to prevent your child from climbing out when they begin to increase their mobility. It is also important to consider the type of cot mattress you'll require, as there are a myriad of options available, including foam, spring interiors or natural materials for allergy sufferers. If you're considering buying a new cot, then you might be interested in a mattress protector to safeguard against spills or stains. It's worth hiring a professional to inspect the safety of your used cot and fix any damage. It's usually around PS100 but it's well worth it to ensure your peace of mind.
Style
It can be easy to get bogged down in the details of safety and specifications when shopping for a baby but don't forget about the style. A cot will be in use for a long time so it's crucial to choose one that matches the room of your baby and your decor. There are plenty of cots and cot beds come in different colourways and designs that will look great with any nursery furniture or interiors you've selected for your baby's initial bedroom.
The Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed illustrates how stylish a crib can be. The storage drawer in the under-bed was a feature that helped it earn high marks from our panel. Teething rails and three adjustable mattress heights also make this cot bed practical and stylish. The cot is easy to put together, despite the fact that it comes flat-packed, with simple instructions and labeled parts.
Another alternative for a stylish cot is Stokke Sleepi, which combines Scandi style with the practicality of a cot that can grow with your child. It can be used as a cot right from birth until the time your child is five, when you can convert it into a bed for toddlers by removing a side. Its smooth oval finish and high-quality construction impressed our testers however, the price may be a hindrance for some.
A crib is a safe space for your baby to lay throughout the day and at night, but it's important to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and follow them with care to ensure your baby is comfortable and secure. If you choose a cot with bars that are too tightly separated, your baby could become trapped or choke. Also, you should be sure that the mechanism for dropping is reliable and does not allow your child to lower it.
You should also ensure that the cot you purchase is compliant with UK safety standards, usually BS EN 716, and in the event that it is converted into a bed, BS 8509, which has an anti-bite strip along the top of the bars. Most cots and cot beds will have this information included in the description of the product or on their website, however if you have any concerns you should speak to the seller to confirm.
Convertibility
Some models are built to last for an extended period of time. The most popular convert into toddler beds and even sofas, allowing you to use them beyond the infant stage. These cost more because they must support the weight of a child for a longer period of time. However, they are a great investment if you plan to keep them in use long after your baby has grown.
It is crucial to ensure that the cot you choose is in compliance with UK safety standards. Examine the BS EN code on the page of the product to confirm. Also, ensure that the base is slatted completely with no gaps at all sides. If it isn't, you will need to purchase a new mattress.
Some cots are also equipped with additional features, such as teething rails, which can help to reduce space and make life as a parent simpler. Some are simple to put together and are ideal for those who are not able to complete the task in time or are concerned about putting it together. One of our mom test subjects rated the John Lewis cot-bed as 'easiest to assemble flatpack'. It comes with clear instructions and photos.
The Boori cot is a different option. It has a timeless look and comes in a range of finishes that can be suited to your nursery. It can be converted into a toddler bed by removing one side of the cot. It can then be transformed into a junior cot using the addition a footboard. It's also available in a range of sizes to match your room, and one of our test parents said hers had lasted through three children.
Another great choice is the Stokke Sleepi, which has a modular design that allows you to expand it into different configurations. The mini model can be used from birth, but with the addition the side, it could be converted into a toddler's bed. Once your child grows older, you can make the switch to the junior bed. It's also a top pick for aesthetics, with our panel loving the natural finish and smooth oval shape.