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 as well as an anti-bite plastic strip on its top rails help keep it neat and tidy.

This crib with smart technology could be the answer for your baby who is a bit fussy. It is able to respond with soothing sounds that resemble a womb.

Size

A cot that is of high quality is the ideal size to provide your baby with space to grow without weighing down the nursery. The standard UK cot size is 70cm x 140cm. This should be adequate to fit most babies until they reach around three years of age. However, some cots feature curved corners or other features that can cause issues with the size of a mattress, therefore it is important to check the footprint of your cot prior to making a purchase.

There are many stores on the high street where you can browse a wide range of cots. Some include Dunelm and Ikea. Many retailers have an exchange policy so that you can return a cot that doesn't fit your needs. It's also a good idea to shop on the internet, as you will get a better idea of the dimensions of each cot, and the way it will look in your nursery.

If you're looking for a top-notch crib, consider the SNOO Smart Sleeper. The cot listens to your baby's crying and responds by gently rocking them to sleep, emulating 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's perfect for babies who suffer from breathing problems or fussy newborns. It can also track their sleep patterns to help you understand your child's routines.

Another great alternative is the Stokke Sleepi Cot. This cot that is minimalistic, made of solid beech, has an easily removed panel that can be transformed into a bed for toddlers. It has a range of mattress bases, so you can adjust the height of your child’s sleeping space to fit their needs. It's also a great option for smaller bedrooms or with sloped ceilings and our panel found it easy to construct.

Another cot that is budget-friendly is the Elementary cot from John Lewis' Anyday collection. It's available in a range of finishes, from white to dark slate grey, and is suitable for use from birth until the time your child is four years old. It has three mattress height settings that will allow you easily reach your baby, and can be converted into a toddler bed by taking out the sides and adding a footboard. The cot is also FSC certified and comes with a mattress included.

Safety

Cots and cots are vital for your baby's nursery, but they must also be safe. Find a cot that has the code BS EN 716 and that is certified to meet British safety standards. It should have a flat and firm mattress and shouldn't be stuffed with duvets or bumpers which aren't recommended.


If you're purchasing a used cot, make sure to determine the age of it. Lead paint is toxic for babies. Look for indications that the cot has been used, particularly along the sides, where children may 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 create a choking hazard to your child.

Some cots come with extra features, like teething rails, storage drawers, and storage drawers. One of our mom test subjects praised this John Lewis model for being both stylish and functional. It's easy to put together and all pieces are alphabetized," she said. She also said it was also one of the easiest cribs that can be converted into a toddler-sized bed. The cot has an organizer that can be used to keep the nursery tidy. It also comes with three heights that are adjustable that allow you to use it to accommodate your growing child.

Another consideration is the depth of the cot. You should look for a cot that is at least 50cm in depth, as this will stop your child from escaping as they increase their mobility. It is also worth thinking about the kind of mattress you'll require, as there are many choices out there from foam spring interiors, spring interiors, or natural materials that are suitable for allergy sufferers. If you're considering buying a new cot, then you may think about a cot mattress protector to safeguard against stains or spills. If you're buying a second-hand cot, you'll want to consult a professional to assess the safety of the cot and repair any damage. This service will cost you around PS100 however it's worthwhile for peace of mind.

Style

When shopping for a child it's easy to be engrossed in safety and specs. However, don't forget about style. It is crucial to choose the right cot for your baby's nursery as well as your decor. Luckily, many cots and cots are available in a variety of styles and colours that will look great with the furniture or interiors you have selected for your baby's initial bedroom.

The Obaby Stamford Luxe Sleigh Cotbed is a fantastic example of how stylish a cot could be. The drawer under the bed is a useful feature that made it a top pick on our panel, and teething rails as well as 3 adjustable mattress heights make this cot bed as functional as it is fashionable. Our testers also liked that the cot was simple to build and was delivered in a flatpack, with easy-to-follow instructions and labelled parts.

Another alternative for an elegant cot is the Stokke Sleepi, which combines Scandi style with the practicality of a cot which can grow with your child. It can be used as a cot from birth or until your child reaches the age of five, at which point it can be converted to a toddler's bed by cutting off a corner. Its smooth oval-shaped finish and quality construction impressed our test subjects, but the price tag might be a problem for some.

If you choose a model with bars that are too close your baby may become trapped or choke. It is also important to ensure that the drop-side mechanism works smoothly and reliably and cannot be easily dropped by your child. If you choose a model that has bars that are too tightly separated, your baby could become trapped or choke. You should also ensure that the drop-side mechanism is secure and doesn't allow your child to lower it.

If you're buying a cot that converts into a mattress, ensure that it is compliant with UK safety standards. They are typically BS EN 716 and BS 8509 that have an anti-bite strip at the bar's top. This information is usually included in the description of the product for the cot or bed, however, you can also look it up on the website of the seller.

Convertibility

Some models are made to last for an extended period of time. Many popular cots can be transformed into sofas for toddlers or toddlers. This allows you to keep using it after the baby stage. They cost more as they are required to support an overweight child for a longer period of time. However they are an excellent investment if you are planning to use them long after your baby is grown.

It is crucial to ensure that the cot you pick meets UK safety standards. Look up the BS EN code on the product's website to confirm. Also, ensure the base is fully slatted with no gaps on any sides. If cribs beds doesn't then you'll need to buy a mattress separately.

Some cots have additional features such as rails for teething. These can save space and simplify the lives of parents. Others are easy to assemble which is ideal if you are in a hurry or are worried about putting it all together yourself. The John Lewis cot bed, for instance, was rated by one our mum testers as the most simple flatpack to put together' and is complete with clear instructions and photos.

Another option is the beautiful Boori cot, which has an elegant design and is available in a variety of finishes to suit your nursery. It has 3 adjustable mattress height positions and can be transformed into an infant bed by taking out the side, and later to a junior bed by the addition of a footboard. It comes in a variety of sizes that can be adapted to your space. One of our testers said hers lasted through 3 children.

Stokke Sleepi is another great alternative. It has an modular design that allows it to be adapted into various configurations. The mini model is ideal 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. It's also a top pick for aesthetics with our panel-loving natural finish and smooth oval shape.