How to Choose a Cot Bed

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

The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty and ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies and can be transformed into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether the cot is safe and meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It should be free of labels, transfers and protrusions that could cause dangers to children from choking.

Check that the cot has been assembled correctly, especially in the case of an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots could have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to babies. Modern cots usually have a built-in locking mechanism to ensure that the cot can't collapse or fold down while your child is inside.

Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also important. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its lifespan.

A cot with adjustable base height is an ideal choice, as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of the bed, and will 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 baby starts crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.

When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet and is now ready for the cot bed. Pick a bed or cot that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is secure during the first six months. As they get older and require more space, you might think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all safety standards.

Style

For parents who are new, deciding on a Cot Bed that's not only secure for your baby but that also looks great can be a challenge. But with a little research you can find the perfect cot for your baby that looks stylish and match your home decor. The top crib beds offer various styles such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that is best cots for newborns suited to your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.

Whether you're looking for something modern, traditional or a mix of both, there are a wide selection of cots online that can be adapted to every budget and taste. Some cots are even equipped with extra features such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to help you keep your home tidy and neat!

Another crucial aspect to take into account is the duration of use of your cot. As soon as your child is able to stand without assistance, which is usually around the age three and up, you should move them to a toddler's bed. For this reason, opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed can be a wise investment. You can buy the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to move on, the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting for security.

The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are popular with new parents. They can add a touch of luxury and glamour to any room, and work especially well in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create a more striking effect.

When it is time to choose your baby's bedding it is best cot newborn to opt for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will decrease the chance of tripping or getting caught and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds can be changed easily to a toddler or junior bed for growing families. This can save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed as their child grows from best infant cribs to a toddler.

The design of the convertible cot allows for customisation. It can include sides that are static, with doors or that 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 transparent panels that allow your child to view their surroundings. This encourages independence and a feeling of exploration.

The majority of cot beds can be adjusted base positions that can be adjusted to meet your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows you can lower the position to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will allow him or her to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.

Those looking for more of traditional style can opt for a classic design that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made with durable and sturdy wood that will last for a long time. The slats of the cot are carefully spaced for your child's safety and they are treated with non-toxic finishes.

Other cots are more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. It will also save you the expense and space of having a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.

Some cots have even more innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has an wooden frame with a home-like style that is perfect for hanging toys. It can also be a great hidden bedroom when it is covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with an exclusive design that can grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.

Storage

Finding the ideal cot is a wise investment whether you are furnishing a nursery or creating a baby comfortable space for your loved one. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will allow you to use it for a long time. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features allowing you to piece it together at home. Some cot beds are also equipped with extras, like drawers under the bed or movable changing tops.

Cots are light, portable frames that are designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric with a simple mattress. Others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots are required to meet strict UK safety standards.

While the price of a cot varies according to the materials used and additional features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to construct and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's a bit expensive, but its sleek style and quality construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment as they allow you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby into a toddler, and then into a bed of a large size. You can find beds that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots, and they can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.

When buying a cot consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. cots offers must be kept away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter, blankets, and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, ensure that you inspect the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. If you are concerned, contact the manufacturer for advice.