How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe, comfortable and secure place for your child to rest. However, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its beauty and ease of assembly and quality construction. It is suitable for babies 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 secure environment for your child. The most important factor to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. If you are thinking of purchasing a second-hand or heirloom cot, it is essential to ensure it complies with the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of stickers and transfers that could present a choking hazard as well as any protrusions on the top rail that might be able to catch your child's clothes or prevent them from climbing out.
Check that the cot is properly assembled, particularly if it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. tots and cots have an integrated locking mechanism that stops the crib from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is also crucial. It should be sturdy and fit snugly in the cot with no gaps on either side. You should also consider using a waterproof mattress protector to protect the fabric from accidents and extend its life.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is a great option, since 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 bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base frequently particularly if your child starts crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their bassinet, or crib then the next step is the cot bed. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that 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 when they reach their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet the required safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to choose the right Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. With a bit of research, you can find the perfect cot for your baby, which will look stylish and match your home decor. The most stylish crib beds have a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts, so you can choose the one that is best suited to your baby's room and your personal style preferences.
There are plenty of cots on the market that will suit any taste and budgets regardless of whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots are even equipped with extra features such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to help keep your home tidy and neat!
The amount of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. When your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is usually at around the age of three and up, you should transition them into a toddler's bed. For this reason, opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a wise investment. You can buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to move on the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level for security.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are a popular choice for many new parents. They can add an element of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set for an additional striking effect.
You should always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding like bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a danger of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are comfortably fit over the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps between the two sides of the bed. This will decrease the risk of snagging and tripping, and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily to a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed every time their child develops from a infant to a toddler.
The convertible cot design has sides that can be made to be fixed, have doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This promotes independence and a feeling of exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions that can be adjusted to meet your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the settings to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will still allow your child to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you're looking for more of a traditional look can opt for a classic style that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots will last a lifetime because they're made from strong and durable wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the safety of your little one and are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern, with features like built-in storage and rails for teething. Some cots come with a changing table to make it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots feature more creative designs, like the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is perfect for hanging toys. It is also a great den when covered by sheets. It is also built to last with unique design that lets it expand with your child and can accommodate a 10-year-old junior bed.
Storage
Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a baby friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Choose a model with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with additional features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames that are designed for children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have simple mattresses. Others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their design.
Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can vary depending on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot from 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 a bit expensive, however its sleek design and high-quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cots offer an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of the furniture as your baby grows into a toddler, and eventually a full-size bed. You can find beds that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots and they may cost more, but they offer greater longevity.
When purchasing a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, ensure that the space is free of any clutter and other dangers like toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. If you are concerned ask the manufacturer guidance.