How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe, comfortable and secure space for your child to rest. However they can be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its aesthetics and ease of assembly and quality construction. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your child. It is essential to determine whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most current British standards. It should also be free of stickers and other transfers that could present a choking hazard as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could be able to catch your child's clothes or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also worth checking that the cot is properly assembled, particularly in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which is poisonous to babies. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
It is important to choose the correct mattress for your child. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot, and have no gaps at either end. You should also use a waterproof mattress protector to protect the fabric from damage and prolong its life.
It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable base height that allows you to lower the mattress as they expand. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, as well as reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the height of the base regularly, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around during sleep.
If your baby has outgrown their crib, or bassinet then the next step is the purchase of a cot-bed. Pick a bed or cot that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is protected throughout the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick a Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. If you do a little research, you can find an cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The best crib beds offer different styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that is best suited to your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
There are plenty of Baby Cot on the market to suit all tastes and budgets, whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots are equipped with additional features such as teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things tidy and neat.
The amount of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. Once your child is able to stand without assistance, which usually occurs around the age of three it is time to move them to the bed of a toddler. Therefore, choosing a cot that can be converted 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 bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting for safety.
The sleigh and four poster crib designs are also popular with new parents. These can add a touch of elegance and class to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for a more striking effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby, you should always aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they can increase the danger of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that fit snugly over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will reduce the risk of snagging or tripping and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, as they can be easily converted into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents money and the hassle of having to buy an entirely new bed each time their child grows from a infant to a toddler.
The convertible cot design comes with customisable sides which can be static, feature doors or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. There are also clear panel options which allow your child to view their surroundings, fostering independence and an appreciation for exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to accommodate your baby's development requirements. The highest setting is used for the first few months, then as your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up unaided you can choose the lowest position for base which allows them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots are generally made from sturdy and durable wood that can endure the test of time. The slats of the cot are also closely spaced for your child's safety and they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and come with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even come with a baby changing top to make it easier to change your baby. It will also save you the cost and space of having a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots are more innovative than that like the Pinette which features an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and can be the ideal secret den when it's covered with a bed sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for your loved one, selecting the best crib bed is a crucial investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long period of time and adapts to your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with extras, like drawers under the bed or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are made from a lightweight wood or fabric and come with a simple mattress, whereas others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must be in compliance with strict UK safety standards, regardless of the kind.
While the cost of a cot varies according to the materials used and additional features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to construct and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. Although it's more expensive than the average, its sleek design and high-end construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they permit you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a baby to an adult, and eventually into a bed of a large size. You can choose from options that can convert a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than standard cots, and they are more expensive, but they provide longer-lasting use.
Consider where you will place the cot and how large the room is before you purchase one. Cots should be kept away from heat sources or direct sunlight and should be well-ventilated. Also, make sure the room is free of clutter and other hazards like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to examine the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.