How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not adhere to safety guidelines.

The Mamas & 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 birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is essential to determine if it meets the current safety standards. If you are thinking of purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is crucial to ensure it complies with the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of transfers and stickers that could present dangers to choking, as well as any protrusions from the top rail that could be able to catch your child's clothes or hinder them from climbing out.

Check that the cot has been put together correctly, particularly if it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots and tots might have been painted with lead paint which is toxic for babies. Modern models have a locking mechanism built in that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.

It is essential to choose the correct mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and fit comfortably into the cot and have no gaps on either side. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and extend its life.

A cot with an adjustable base height is a great choice, as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will help prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the height of the base on a regular basis especially if your child starts crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.

After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet an cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for a bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they grow older, you may think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet all the necessary safety standards.

Style

It can be difficult for parents with young children to select a Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. However, with a little bit of research you can find the perfect cot for your baby that will look stylish and match your home decor. The best crib newborn cots are available in various designs, such as solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can choose one that complements your style and the room of your baby.

There are a variety of cots offers available online that will suit any taste and budgets, whether you're looking for traditional, modern, or something in between. Some cots offers come with extra features such as teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.

The length of time your cot will be used is an important factor. You will want to move your child into a toddler bed as soon as they can stand up on their own, which usually happens around the age of three. Therefore, opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed may be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress separately, and when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.

The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are also a popular choice for many new parents. They can provide an element of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with curtains or a canopy for added effect.

You should always select breathable bedding for your baby's bedding such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will assist them in regulating their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets which fit perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will decrease the risk of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are perfect for families that are growing as they can easily converted into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will help parents save money and avoid the hassle of having to buy a new bed as their child grows from a infant to an adult.

The design of the convertible cot provides for customisation. It can have sides that are static and have doors, or fold down to allow easy access. They are designed to decrease the chance of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see the world around them. This encourages the child's independence and encourages exploration.

Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows you can lower the settings to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child can sit up without assistance, you can select the lowest base position that will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot safely.

If you prefer a more traditional look, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they are treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots are more modern and come with features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing table 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 creative than that and include the Pinette which has a house design wooden frame which is perfect to hang toys from and is the ideal place to sleep in when covered with a sheet. It is also built to last with unique design that lets it expand with your child and can accommodate 10 years old junior beds.

Stores

Finding the ideal cot is a wise investment, whether you are furnishing a nursery or creating a baby cozy space for a beloved. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that allow you to use it for a long time. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, with flatpack features that allow you to make it yourself at home. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.

affordable cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for small children and infants. Some models are made of light wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more robust, and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must be in compliance with the strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.

While the cost of a cot varies depending on materials and extra features, most are within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. Although it's on the expensive side but its sleek design and high-end construction make this a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby to a toddler, and then to a larger bed. You can choose from options that convert cribs into toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than traditional cribs. They may be more expensive however they last longer.

When you are buying a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the room is. Cots should be kept away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they should be well-ventilated. Make sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot, check the frame for any protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.