Which affordable cots is Right For Your Baby?
Cots are designed to keep infants from climbing out of the bed, or suffocating when they fall into the gaps between the mattress and the cot. They should not have any sharp edges or protrusions.
The majority of cots have four sides that are secure to ensure your baby's safety throughout the day. They usually come in a fixed size and may be converted to a toddler bed as your child grows.
Standard Cots
Standard cots can be installed beside the parents' bed, giving parents to see their child as they sleep. The cots are designed with fixed sides to prevent babies from climbing over them. Once your baby is able to stand and crawl over the sides, they pose an hazard to safety and should be removed.
Cots are generally circular in shape to help reduce space and are also more compact than traditional cots. They are easy to clean and provide a safe and comfortable place for your child to sleep. They can be easily moved between rooms and are usually on wheels or castors that allow you to move them around easily.
Many cots are simple and basic. Some have additional features like teething rails or drawers for storage. The most durable cots are constructed of natural materials as these are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. It is important to keep them free of stuffed pillows or animals, as they can cause children to drown.
A cot-bed can be a bigger version of a cot with removable sides and end panels. It can be converted into a bed for toddlers when your child is old enough to leave it. This feature is particularly beneficial if you expect to have more than one child since it makes it easier to switch between different types and can save money by not having to buy separate beds. The majority of cot beds can be used from birth until around two years of age dependent on the size and weight of your infant.
Drop-side Cots
If you suffer from back pain, a cot with drop-sides is the best option. It won't require you to bend over the side. This is crucial as back pain is among the most common issues among pregnant women and new parents particularly those who have previously hurt their backs.
This type of cot allows you to reach your child more easily throughout the day, without having to lift them or be concerned about your back. However, you need to make sure that the distance between the base of the cot and the mattress is at least 4cm so that your child won't be able to get out.
We suggest that you contact us at Baby's Hyperstore if aren't sure which cot is best for your needs. We will be happy to discuss your options. We can help you choose the most stylish and safe cot that will evolve with your child and meet all mandatory safety standards.
John Lewis Elementary cot is our top choice. It scored high marks for its ease of assembly. Mum tester Gina said that it was "a dream to construct with very clear instructions and pictures". It includes teething rail as well as a drawer to store things in and three different mattress height positions.
The cot's strength and solid construction makes it a great choice for babies who sleep through the night. But you should check whether the cot is constructed from a sanitized material such as solid wood, and that the slats have been fixed properly and not too loose.
Another thing to look out for is whether the cot is certified to meet British safety standards. Prior to 2011, US cots were not tested in the same way as UK models and this has led to some dangerous designs being outlawed in the USA. Find a cot with an auto-locking side for the drop in the up position. It will require two consecutive actions to unlock. This will prevent your child from being able lower the side to climb out.
Corner Cots
Red Nose, an organization that campaigns to eradicate sudden infant deaths syndrome, advises that any fabric placed close to babies should be tucked tightly to prevent the possibility of being suffocated. Red Nose advises that curtains or blinds should never be left hanging over the cot as they can be strangulating and babies can catch their heads on them when they slumber during their sleep.
This minimalistic cot-bed is a budget buy but it's actually quite durable. It's suitable for infants all the way to toddlers. It can be transformed into a toddler's bed by removing a side panel. It is also a great choice for parents who have high ceilings that slope. It is equipped with lockable castors to prevent the cot falling down.
This cot bed made of wooden in vintage style is another cot that can be easily converted. It can be used by children from birth to age 4. It has an unusual oval shape that means it won't be stuck in corners and is able to easily fit through standard door frames. By removing the bars, it is possible to transform the cot into a chic bed for older children.
This curve-shaped cot-bed is an excellent investment that will create an outstanding centerpiece for any nursery. It is available in off-white and stylish green. It's a great option for parents who value longevity, since it can be converted into a toddler bed by taking out the sides and turning into a twin bed for a child who is older by taking out the front rails. It's also extremely sturdy and has a storage area with teething rails as well as an ideal hanger for blankets or muslins.
affordable cots with Drawers
If you're looking to add storage space for your baby's clothing or bedding, or are looking for a design that will grow with them There are plenty of options available on the market. Some cots convert into toddler beds, making the transition over simple when your little one outgrows it. Other cots have 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 toys, blankets, muslins, and other things that your child enjoys. It is also easier to clean up, as everything is all in one place. These cots also have anti-bite strips on the sides - perfect for infants who are teething!
If you're looking to save money but still require a stylish and practical cot, then the Ikea Sniglar is a good choice. It's a minimalist design that's slim and will work well in all rooms. It can be used with an ordinary crib mattress and has three adjustable heights for the base to accommodate the growing baby. It can be transformed into a toddler bed by taking out one of the side panels and there's a range of matching furniture to go with it.
It's not easy to assemble (one of our testers said that the instructions weren't clear) however, once built, it is lightweight and long-lasting. It also has an added benefit: a tilting function which can help with reflux or colic. Additionally, it's available in a variety of colours too so you can match it with other nursery furniture to create a cohesive appearance.
Cots with Storage
If you want your baby's toys and bedding away from view, but still within easy reach, a cot with storage options is the best choice. These cots have drawers to store the essentials. Some are also equipped with a teething bar as well as rails for blankets or muslins.
Depending on the design of your cot you might be able to convert it into an infant bed or a day bed when your child is ready for a change and some transform into a junior bed once your child is five. This is a great way to save money and make your cot a member of the family for many years. Make sure you check the dimensions prior to purchasing to ensure it fits in your nursery.
Obaby's Stamford Luxe Cotbed is a stylish cot that is suitable for babies up to two years old. It can also grow with your child. This classic cot is simple in appearance but comes with plenty of features, including an under-bed storage drawer, a teething rail and adjustable height levels. It's also easy to put together thanks to alphabetically labeled components and excellent instructions.
For a more high-tech sleep solution for your child, the SNOO Smart Sleeper is a bassinet, baby cot and moses basket in one. It's set to revolutionize the way babies sleep, and is backed up by expert advice from internationally-renowned sleep experts. It's an investment, however, and may be priced out of the budget of many families. Our full review will tell you more about the SNOO smart sleeper.