How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure environment for your child to rest. However they can be dangerous if you do not follow the safety guidelines.
The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its aesthetics, ease of assembly, and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies from the moment of birth and can be transformed into a toddler's cot using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether it complies with current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing an heirloom or second-hand cot, it is essential to ensure it complies with the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of stickers and transfers that could present a choking hazard and any protrusions on the top rail that could get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Verify that the cot has been properly assembled, particularly in the case of a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted in leaded paint, which is harmful to babies. Newer models usually come with a locking mechanism to ensure that the cot doesn't fold or collapse when your child is in.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is critical. It must be firm, fit snugly inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its life.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is an ideal choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, as well as helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the base height regularly particularly after your child is starting to pull themselves up and crawling around during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib or bassinet and is now ready for the cot bed. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their lives. After that, you'll want to consider a single or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all the necessary safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. If you do a little research, you can find an cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The top crib beds offer different styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits your baby's room and your personal style preferences.
There are many cots online that will suit any taste and budgets whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something else in between. cots to tots come with extra features like teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib to help keep everything neat and tidy!
The amount of time your cot will be used is an important aspect. You'll want to transfer your child into an adult bed as soon as they are able to stand up on their own, which usually happens at the age of 3. For this reason, choosing a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed could be a good investment. You can purchase the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to move on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest level to ensure safety.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are a popular choice for many new parents. These can add a touch elegance and luxury to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set for an additional striking effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding You should aim for soft fabrics such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a risk of inhaling suffocation. Use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will reduce the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for growing families as they can easily converted into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents money and the stress of buying a new bed as their child grows from baby to a toddler.
The convertible cot design has customizable sides that can be static, feature doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to reduce the chance of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panel options which allow your child to view their surroundings, fostering the sense of independence and exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the setting to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up unaided you can choose the lowest base position which will allow them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.
For those who prefer a traditional look can opt for a classic style that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots will last for a long time because they are made of strong and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and are coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern, with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some cots come with changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are even more innovative than that and include the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal to hang toys from and is the perfect place to hide when covered with a sheet. It is also built to last, with unique design that lets it expand with your child and accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Stores
The right cot for your child is a wise investment, whether you're furnishing your nursery or creating a friendly space for a loved-one. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that let you use it for many years. Find a cot with flatpack features that allow you to put it together yourself. Some cot-beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for babies and small children. Some models are made from a lightweight wood or fabric and come with a simple mattress while others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of the design.
While the cost of a cot varies in relation to the materials used and other features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment since they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby to a toddler, and finally into a bed of a large size. You can choose from options that can convert a crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than standard cots. They can be more expensive, but they last longer.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how large the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.