How to Choose the Best Cots in the UK
Silver Cross' cot is stylish and sleek thanks to its minimalist design. Its warm oak finish makes it a wonderful addition to any nursery. It's also tidy with a drawer as well as an anti-bite plastic strip on the top rails.
If your child is a troublesome sleeper, this crib might be the answer. It responds to their cry with soothing sounds that mimic the womb.
Size
A cot that is suitable for your child is the perfect size to give your baby enough room to grow without overtaking the nursery. The standard UK cot mattress size is 70cm by 140cm, that should be enough for babies between three and four years old. Certain cots might have curving edges or other features that may affect the fit of a mattress. It is therefore essential to check the cot's footprint prior to purchasing.
You can find cots at many high-street retailers including Dunelm or Ikea. Many retailers have a return policy so you can return a cot that doesn't fit your requirements. It's also worth shopping online, since you can gain a better understanding of the dimensions of each cot and how it will look in your nursery.
If you are looking for a high-quality cot that is of high-end quality, the SNOO Sleeper Smart is a fantastic choice. This cot will monitor your baby's cry and gently rock them to sleep, simulating the sounds of the womb. This technology helps your baby get a good night's sleep. It can be used in any cot or crib. It is ideal for babies with breathing issues or are irritable newborns. It also monitors their sleep patterns to help you understand your child's habits.
Stokke Sleepi Cot is another great option. The cot is minimalist and constructed from solid beech and features an adjustable panel that can be transformed into a toddler bed. It comes with a variety mattress bases, so you can adjust the height of your child's sleeping space to fit their needs. her comment is here 's a great option for small bedrooms or those with ceilings that slope. Our panel also found it easy to assemble.
Another cot that is budget-friendly is the Elementary cot from John Lewis' Anyday collection. It is available in a variety of finishes, ranging from white to dark slate grey and is suitable for use from birth until your child is four years old. 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 a footboard. The crib includes a mattress and is FSC certified.
Safety
Cots and cot beds are a crucial part of the nursery of your baby's but they have to be secure too. Find a cot that has the code BS EN 716 and that has been certified as meeting British safety standards. It must also have a sturdy flat mattress and not be stuffed with duvets or bumpers that aren't recommended by the Lullaby Trust.
If you're buying a second-hand cot, be sure that it's not overly old, as paint can contain lead that can be harmful to infants. Look for indications that the cot was used, particularly around the sides, where children may rub their hands. This could cause irritation to the skin. Check for any stickers and transfers that may fall off, creating the risk of choking your baby.
Some cots are equipped with additional features, like storage drawers and teething rails. One of our mum testers was extremely pleased with this John Lewis model for being stylish and functional. It's easy to assemble and all pieces are alphabetized," she said. She added that it was also one of the most simple cribs to transform into a toddler-sized bed. It also comes with an additional drawer that can help you keep the nursery tidy, and has 3 adjustable heights that allow you to use it as your child grows.
Another thing to consider is the depth of the cot. It is recommended to choose a cot with a minimum depth of 50cm because this will stop your child from climbing up the cot as they become mobile. It is also important to consider the type of mattress you'll need, since there are many choices out there from foam, spring interiors or natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. If you're looking to purchase a new cot you might want to consider a cot mattress protector to guard against spills or stains. If you're buying an older cot, it's worth getting an expert to evaluate its safety and repair any damage. The cost of this service is about PS100, but it is well worth it to ensure your peace of mind.
Style
It's easy to get caught up with spec and safety when purchasing a baby's cot but don't forget about the design. A cot is going to be used for a long period of time, so it's crucial to choose one that matches the room of your baby and your decor. Many cots and beds are available in different colours and designs to match any nursery furniture and interiors that you choose for your baby's bedroom.
The Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed is a wonderful example of how stylish a cot can be. cots to tots in the under-bed was an added feature that helped it earn high marks from our panel. Teething rails and three adjustable mattress heights also make this cot bed practical and fashionable. The cot is easy to assemble, even though it is delivered flat, with easy instructions and clearly 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 from birth until the time your child reaches the age of five, when you can transform it to a toddler's bed by cutting off a corner. Its smooth oval-shaped finish and sturdy construction impressed our test subjects, but the price tag may be a hindrance for some.
A crib is a safe space for your baby to rest throughout the day and at night It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully and follow them closely to ensure your baby is comfortable and secure. If you select a cot with bars that are too closely separated, your baby could be trapped or choke. It is also important to ensure that the mechanism for dropping is reliable and does not let your child lower it.
You should also ensure that the cot you purchase conforms to UK safety standards, typically BS EN 716, and when it transforms into bed, BS 8509, which includes a plastic strip that prevents bites across the top of the bars. The majority of cots and cots will have this information included in the description of the product or on their website, however should you have any questions it's a good idea to speak with the retailer to be certain.
Convertibility
Certain models are designed to last for many years. Most popular cots can be converted into sofas or toddler beds. This allows you to continue using it long after the baby stage. These tend to cost more due to the fact that they must support the weight of a larger child for a longer period, however they can be a great value for your money if you are planning to keep using them after your child is older.
A cot is also one of the most crucial purchases you'll make for your new arrival and it is essential to ensure that it complies with strict UK safety standards. Check for the BS EN 716 code on the product's webpage to confirm this, and check that it has a base that is fully slatted and has no gaps on all sides. If it doesn't then you'll need to purchase a separate mattress.
Some cots come with additional features like a drawer for storage or rails for teething. These can help save space and make life easier for parents. Some are simple to put together, which is perfect if you are not able to complete the task in time or are concerned about putting it together. The John Lewis cot bed, for instance, was rated by one our mom testers as the'most simple flatpack to assemble and comes with clear instructions and pictures.
Another option is the gorgeous Boori cot, which has a timeless design and comes in an array of finishes to match your nursery. It can be transformed into a toddler bed, by taking one side off the cot. Then it can be converted into a junior cot by the addition of a footboard. It comes in different sizes that can be adapted to your space. One of our testers said hers lasted through three kids.
Another option is the Stokke Sleepi, which has an modular design that permits you to expand it into different configurations. The mini model is suitable from birth, and then transforms into a toddler bed by the addition of a side, and then it can be converted into a junior bed once your child is ready for it. It's also a top choice for aesthetics, with our panel loving the natural finish and smooth oval shape.