Which Baby Cot is Right For Your Baby?
Cots stop children from falling out of bed or becoming suffocated when they fall between the mattress and the cot. They should not have any sharp edges or protrusions.
Most cots have four secure sides, so you can rest assured that your child is secure at all times. Many cots come in fixed-sizes and can be converted into a toddler bed if your child gets older.
Standard Cots
Standard cots can be placed on top of the parents' bed, allowing parents to see their child as they sleep. These cots are designed to be secure and safe with fixed sides that prevent babies from climbing on the sides. When your baby is capable of standing and crawling over the sides, they pose a safety risk and should be removed.
Cots are usually circular in shape to reduce space and are also smaller than traditional cots. They are easy to clean and provide a cozy and secure space for your baby to rest in. They are portable and usually come with castors or wheels so you can move them around.
Many cots are basic and straightforward. Some have extra features, like teething rails or drawers for storage. Natural materials are the best as they are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. They should be kept free of toys and pillows as they could pose danger of suffocation for young children.
A cot bed is a bigger version of the cot which features removable sides as well as an end panel, which means it can be converted into a toddler bed once your baby outgrows it. This feature is especially useful if you expect to have more than one child, as it eliminates having to switch between different types and reduces costs by not purchasing separate beds. The majority of cot-beds are suitable from birth until around two years of age, depending on the size and weight of your infant.
Drop-side Cots
A cot that has drop sides is perfect if you suffer from back pain as it means that you don't have to bend over the side as much. This is crucial as back pain is one of the most frequent problems for pregnant women and new parents, especially those who have suffered back injuries in the past.
This type of cot means that your baby can be reached more easily during the day without needing to worry about your back or lifting them. But, you must ensure that the gap between the base of the mattress and the cot is at least 4cm so that your child isn't able to climb out.
We suggest you call us at Baby's Hyperstore if you are unsure about which cot will best suit your requirements. We can talk about your options. We can help you select a stylish and safe cot that will develop with your child and meet all mandatory safety standards.
John Lewis Elementary cot is our top pick. It received high marks for its ease of assembly. Mum tester Gina said it was "a dream to construct with very clear instructions and pictures". It comes with teething rails, a drawer for storage and three different mattress height positions.
The cot is an excellent option for babies who are able to sleep all night. Make sure that the cot's slats and frame are securely fixed and not too loose.
Another thing to look for is whether the cot has been inspected to meet British safety standards. Prior to 2011, US cots were not tested in the same way as UK models, and this led to unsafe designs being banned in the USA. Look for a model that automatically locks the drop side when in the up position and requires two consecutive actions to unlock, which will prevent your baby from pulling the side down and get out.
Corner Cots
Red Nose, an organization that campaigns to eradicate sudden infant deaths syndrome, advises that any material placed near a baby should be tucked tightly to reduce the possibility of the baby suffocating. Red Nose advises that curtains or blinds should never be hung above the cot, as they could be strangulation hazards and children could get their heads on them if they slumber during their sleep.
A low-cost purchase that's robust, this crib bed is suitable from birth to toddler age. It can be transformed into a toddler's bed by removing the side panel. It is also a great choice for parents who have ceilings that slope, since it has lockable castors that ensure that the cot isn't falling down.
Another cot that's simple to convert, this vintage wooden cot bed is used from birth until the child is 4 years old. It has a unique oval shape which means it won't get stuck in corners and is able to easily fit through door frames that are standard. The cot can be turned into a stylish bench-style bed for older children by lifting the bars.
This curve-shaped cot-bed is an excellent investment that will create a stunning centrepiece for any nursery. It comes in off-white and stylish green. It's an excellent choice for parents who value durability, since it can be made into an infant bed by removing the sides and into a twin bed for older children by removing the front rails. cribs 's also incredibly robust and includes an storage drawer as well as teething rails, as well as a handy hanging rail for blankets or muslins.
Cots with Drawers
There are a variety of options on the market, whether you need additional storage space for your baby's clothing or bedding or a design that can adapt to their needs. Some cots convert to toddler beds, making the switch over easy when your little one outgrows it. Some come with built-in drawers to store things in and some have a changing area included!
It's handy to have a cot with drawers for all the blankets, toys, muslins or other things that your child enjoys. It is also easier to clean up since everything is in one place. Many of these cots have anti-bite strips of plastic on the sides, which are great for babies who are teething!
The Ikea Sniglar is an excellent choice if you are on a tight budget but still want a stylish, practical cot. It's simple and slimline aesthetic that'll fit well in most rooms. It can be used with a standard mattress for a cot and comes with three heights that can be adjusted to accommodate the growing baby. via can be transformed into a bed for toddlers by taking off the side panel. There are furniture pieces that go along with it.
It can be difficult to put together (one of our testers complained that the instructions weren't clear) however, once built, it is lightweight and long-lasting. It also has an added benefit: a tilting function that can aid in treating colic or reflux. Plus, it's available in a variety of colors, so you can pair it with other nursery furniture if you're going for a coordinated style.
Cots with Storage
If you want your baby's bedding and toys away from view but still within easy reach, a cot with storage options is the best choice. These cots have a drawer to store all the essentials. Some come with a teething bar and rails for blankets or muslins.
It is possible to transform your cot into a daybed or toddler bed when your child is old enough to upgrade. Some cots can become a junior bed after your child turns five. This provides you with an excellent value for money and will ensure that your cot will be part of the family for many years to come, but be certain to look at the dimensions to ensure it will fit into your nursery prior to purchasing.
Obaby's Stamford Luxe Cotbed is a fashionable cot which can be used for babies up to two years old. It can also grow with your child. This classic cot is minimalist in appearance but comes with plenty of features, including an under-bed storage drawer, teething rail, and adjustable height levels. It's also simple to put together thanks to alphabetically labeled components and excellent instructions.
If you are looking for a more modern sleep solution The SNOO Smart Sleeper is a baby cot, bassinet and moses basket in one. It's designed to revolutionize the way babies sleep and includes expert advice from international consultants. The price is high and may not fit into the budget of some families. Our full review will give you more about the SNOO smart sleeper.