How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.

Our top choice is the Mamas & Papas Coxley cot bed, which earned high marks for its beauty and quality construction, as well as its ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the moment of birth and can be made into a toddler's bed with 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 the cot meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers which could create dangers to choking and any protrusions on the top rail which could be able to catch your child's clothes or prevent them from climbing out.

It's also worth checking that the cot is properly constructed, especially if it's a hand-me-down or an older model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Newer models usually include a locking mechanism to ensure that the cot doesn't fold or collapse while your child is inside.

It is crucial to select the right mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its life.

It is best cots for newborns to choose a cot that has an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as your children increase in size. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling out of bed, and reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base regularly particularly after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.

Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, an cot bed is the next step in their growth. Select a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for a bed. This will ensure your baby is protected during the first six months. Then, you'll need to consider a single bed or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.

Style

It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select the right Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. However, with a little bit of research you can locate the perfect cot for your baby that looks stylish and fit your decor. The top cots are available in a variety of designs, such as solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can choose one that matches your style and the room of your baby.

There are a variety of cots available online that will suit any taste and budgets regardless of whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots 4 tots even come with extra features like teething rails and drawers under the bed to help you keep everything neat and tidy!

The length of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. You will want to move your child to a toddler bed when they are able to sit up without assistance and sit up on their own, which is usually around the age of three. For this reason, choosing an cot that converts into a toddler bed can be a great crib investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.

Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster design for their cot. They can provide an element of luxury and glamour to any nursery cots and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains for a more dramatic effect.

When it is time to choose your baby's bedding it is best to opt for soft fabrics such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can pose a risk of inhaling suffocation. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly fitting over the mattress, and make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will reduce the risk of tripping or snagging and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are perfect for families growing, as they can easily changed into a toddler or junior bed at the time of need. This will spare parents the expense and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they grow from baby to 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 decrease the risk of entrapment, and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This promotes independence and a feeling of exploration.

Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and stages of development. The highest setting is recommended in the initial few months, and when your baby grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. 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 prefer a traditional look traditional style, a classic design will fit in with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time because they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and are treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cribs are more modern with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some even come with a Baby Cot Bed changing table to make it easier for you to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet to change your baby.

Some cots are even more innovative than others like the Pinette which has an elegant wooden frame that's perfect for hanging toys and can be the ideal place to sleep in when surrounded by a sheet. It's also built to last with a unique extendable design that lets it grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.

Storage

Finding the right cot is a wise investment whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a baby comfortable space for your loved one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long period of time, adapting to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and rails for teething. Find a cot that's easy to put together, with flatpack features that let you put it together at home. Some cot beds come with additional features, like drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable sleeping frames for infants and small children. Some models are constructed of fabrics or wood and feature a simple mattress while others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots have to meet strict UK safety standards.

While the price of a cot varies depending on materials and extra features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side but its sleek style and high-quality construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cot-beds can be a good investment as they let you use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a newborn to an adult, and eventually to a larger bed. You can choose from options that can convert cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds tend to be larger than standard cribs. They may be more costly, but they last longer.

When purchasing a cot, think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to check the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. If you are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for guidance.