How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its aesthetics and ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. The most important consideration is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recent British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers that could present the risk of choking, as well as any protrusions from the top rail that might catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also worth checking that the cot is correctly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Modern models have a locking mechanism that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is also critical. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot with no gaps on either side. You should also use a mattress protector with waterproof properties to shield the fabric from injuries and extend its life.
It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they grow. This will help prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of bed, as well as helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to measure the height of the base frequently particularly if your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up during sleep.
After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet a cot bed is the next step in their growth. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their lives. As they get older, you may think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
For new parents, choosing a Cot Bed that's safe for your baby but that is also stylish can be a challenge. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect crib for your baby Cots on sale that looks elegant and complement your home decor. The most stylish cot beds come with different styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that is best suited to the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
There are a variety of cots available online to fit all tastes and budgets, whether you're seeking a traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots are even equipped with extra features such as teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib, to help you keep everything neat and tidy!
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important factor. It is recommended to move your child into an adult bed as soon as they can stand up on their own, which usually happens at around the age of three. Therefore, choosing an cot that converts into a toddler bed may be a great investment. You can buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to move on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest setting to ensure safety.
Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four-poster cot designs. They can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any space and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with a canopy or curtains for a more dramatic effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby it is best to opt for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on your baby's delicate skin and will help to regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets with heavy weights because they can pose a suffocation risk. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are comfortably to the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the mattress. This will reduce the risk of tripping or getting caught and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are great for families growing, as they can easily transformed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents money and the stress of buying a new bed every time their child grows from baby to a toddler.
The design of the convertible cot permits the possibility of customizing. It can include sides that are stationary with doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panel options which allow your child to see their surroundings, fostering the sense of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental needs. The highest setting is used for the first few months, but as your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will allow him or her to climb into and out of the cot without injury.
Those looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic design that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are usually constructed from sturdy and durable wood that will stand the test of time. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top that makes it easier to change your baby. This will also save you the expense and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots are more innovative than that and include the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and is the perfect place to hide when surrounded by a sheet. It's built to last, with a an exclusive design that lets it grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your child, selecting the best cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long period of time, adapting to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, with flatpack features allowing you to make it yourself at home. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping for infants and small children. Some models are made of fabrics or wood and have a mattress that is simple while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of the design.
Most cots are affordable, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. For example the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. Although it's a bit expensive however, its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cots offer an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of your furniture as your tot grows into a toddler, and eventually, a full-size bed. There are a variety of options that convert cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are generally larger than standard cots, and they may cost more, however they are more durable.
Consider where you will place the cot and how large the room is before purchasing one. Cots must be kept away from direct sunlight or heaters and must be ventilated. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any questions.