Choosing the perfect baby cot is one of the most important decisions for new parents. A cot provides your baby with a safe and comfortable place to rest and grow, and the right one will adapt to your child’s changing needs. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. This guide reviews the 12 best baby cots, highlighting their features, benefits, and how they fit into your antenatal journey.
Why a Good Baby Cot is Essential
Your baby will spend a significant amount of their first few years sleeping, making the cot a key investment. The right baby cot ensures:
Safety: Meets strict safety standards to protect your child.
Comfort: Provides a cosy space to support restful sleep.
Longevity: Some cots convert into toddler beds, growing with your child.
Convenience: Features like adjustable mattress heights and storage add functionality.
By choosing wisely, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing your baby is in a secure and nurturing environment.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baby Cot
1. Safety Standards
Look for certifications such as the British Standard BS EN 716, ensuring the cot meets stringent safety requirements.
2. Material
Opt for solid wood or eco-friendly materials free from harmful chemicals. Non-toxic paints and finishes are essential for your baby’s health.
3. Size
Consider the available space in your nursery and whether you need a standard-sized cot, mini cot, or co-sleeper.
4. Additional Features
Some cots offer extras like storage drawers, adjustable mattress heights, or the ability to convert into a toddler bed.
The 12 Best Baby Cots
1. SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed
Features:
Adjustable to three mattress heights
Converts into a toddler bed (suitable up to 4 years)
Made from sustainably sourced wood
Sleek, Scandinavian design
Why It’s Great: The SnüzKot Skandi is ideal for style-conscious parents who want a long-lasting and eco-friendly option.
Shoppable Link: Buy SnüzKot Skandi Cot Bed
Antenatal Insight: Its longevity aligns with planning ahead during antenatal education or while attending antenatal classes near me.
2. IKEA Gulliver Cot
Features:
Simple, minimalist design
Adjustable mattress heights
Converts into a toddler bed
Affordable price point
Why It’s Great: The IKEA Gulliver offers excellent value for money without compromising on quality or safety.
Shoppable Link: Buy IKEA Gulliver Cot
Pregnancy Care Insight: Budget-friendly, leaving room for other essentials like antenatal vitamins or a prenatal massage.
3. Babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Cot
Features:
Converts to a toddler bed and daybed
Made from sustainable New Zealand pine
Non-toxic finishes
Includes a conversion kit
Why It’s Great: The Babyletto Hudson combines modern design with eco-conscious materials, making it a top choice for environmentally aware parents.
Shoppable Link: Buy Babyletto Hudson Cot
Antenatal Yoga Insight: Its compact design leaves space in your nursery for yoga during pregnancy or stretching exercises.
4. Stokke Sleepi Mini Cot
Features:
Oval design for a cosy environment
Adjustable mattress height
Wheels for easy mobility
Converts into a toddler bed
Why It’s Great: The Stokke Sleepi’s unique oval shape provides a sense of security, mimicking the womb.
Shoppable Link: Buy Stokke Sleepi Cot
Relaxation Insight: Its mobility allows you to move it to different rooms, supporting relaxation during antenatal care.
5. Obaby Grace Cot Bed
Features:
Adjustable mattress base
Converts to a junior bed
Built-in teething rails
Available in various colours
Why It’s Great: The Obaby Grace Cot Bed is a versatile and affordable option with practical features like teething rails.
Shoppable Link: Buy Obaby Grace Cot Bed
Pregnancy Care Tip: Its teething rails protect the cot from wear and tear, lasting through multiple children.
6. East Coast Nursery Hudson Cot Bed
Features:
Adjustable base with three heights
Converts into a daybed and toddler bed
Made from solid wood
Affordable and durable
Why It’s Great: The East Coast Hudson offers long-term use, transitioning from cot to bed seamlessly.
Shoppable Link: Buy East Coast Nursery Cot Bed
Antenatal Support: A practical choice for parents managing finances while attending antenatal checkups.
7. Chicco Next2Me Magic Co-Sleeper Cot
Features:
Allows co-sleeping safely
Adjustable height to match bed levels
Folds flat for storage
Wheels for portability
Why It’s Great: This co-sleeper promotes bonding and makes night-time feeding easier, especially for breastfeeding mothers.
Shoppable Link: Buy Chicco Next2Me Cot
Pregnancy Insight: A great addition for those recovering from prenatal massage or a C-section.
8. Graco Travel Lite Cot
Features:
Lightweight and portable
Includes a canopy for light-blocking
Compact fold for travel
Converts to a playpen
Why It’s Great: This travel cot is perfect for families on the go, offering versatility and convenience.
Shoppable Link: Buy Graco Travel Lite Cot
Antenatal Fitness Tip: Ideal for maintaining routines while travelling for antenatal appointments or classes.
9. Silver Cross Coastline Cot Bed
Features:
Classic design with clean lines
Converts to a toddler bed
Adjustable mattress base
Built-in storage drawer
Why It’s Great: The Silver Cross Coastline is a premium cot with a sleek design and added storage.
Shoppable Link: Buy Silver Cross Coastline Cot Bed
Pregnancy Support Insight: Its built-in drawer helps declutter the nursery, easing stress during antenatal care.
10. Tutti Bambini CoZee Bedside Crib
Features:
Quick-fold mechanism
Adjustable height for co-sleeping
Compact and portable
Includes a breathable mattress
Why It’s Great: The Tutti Bambini CoZee combines style and practicality, making it perfect for bedside sleeping.
Shoppable Link: Buy Tutti Bambini CoZee Crib
Relaxation Tip: Keeps your baby close, promoting a sense of security during relaxation during pregnancy.
11. Bloom Alma Mini Urban Cot
Features:
Compact and foldable design
Wheels for easy mobility
Modern, minimalist style
Suitable for small spaces
Why It’s Great: The Bloom Alma is designed for urban living, offering a stylish solution for smaller homes.
Shoppable Link: Buy Bloom Alma Cot
Antenatal Insight: Its space-saving design allows room for yoga for pregnancy or prenatal yoga.
12. Mothercare Harrogate Cot Bed
Features:
Sturdy wood construction
Converts to a junior bed
Three adjustable mattress heights
Affordable pricing
Why It’s Great: The Mothercare Harrogate is a reliable and budget-friendly option, offering excellent value for growing families.
Shoppable Link: Buy Mothercare Harrogate Cot Bed
Pregnancy Care Tip: A cost-effective choice, leaving room in your budget for antenatal vitamins or additional nursery items.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right baby cot is an investment in your baby’s safety and comfort. From the sleek SnüzKot Skandi to the travel-friendly Graco Travel Lite Cot, these 12 options cater to every lifestyle and budget. Consider factors like safety, material, and additional features to find the perfect fit for your family.
Incorporating a quality cot into your routine complements your antenatal care journey, supporting relaxation, bonding, and preparation for parenthood. Use the provided shoppable links to explore these products and create a nurturing environment for your baby.
References
- The Ultimate Antenatal Classes
Prepare for labour, birth, and baby care with nine experts, including senior NHS midwives and an award-winning obstetrician!
https://unii.com/en/journey/ultimate-antenatal-classes