How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. However they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.
Our top choice is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib, which earned high marks for its design and quality construction, as well as its the ease of assembly. It's suitable from birth and can be transformed to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recommended cribs current British standards. It must be free of any stickers, transfers and protrusions that could create dangers to children from choking.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is assembled, particularly if it's a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint which is toxic for cheap cot beds (https://www.play56.net/home.php?mod=Space&uid=3629756) babies. Modern cots usually include a locking mechanism to ensure that the cot doesn't collapse or fold down when your child is in.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is critical. It should be firm, fit snugly into the cot and have no gaps on either side. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from damage and prolong its life.
A cot with adjustable base height is a good choice as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to check the height of the base frequently particularly if your child begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, an cot bed is the next step in their growth. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure that they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their lives. As they age and require more space, you might be considering the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet all the necessary safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a bit of study, you can locate an cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The best cots come in a variety of styles, including solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can pick one that matches your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking for something traditional, modern or something in between There's a huge variety of cots available online that can meet the needs of all budgets and tastes. Some cots are equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
Another important factor to consider is the length of time you will use of your cot. As soon as your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically at around the age of three, you will want to change them into a toddler's bed. Therefore, opting for a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed could be a wise investment. You can buy the mattress separately, and when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest level.
Many parents also pick the sleigh or four-poster cot design. These designs can add luxury and glamour to any space, and work especially well in rooms with high-ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains for a more dramatic effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby You should aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets because they can pose a suffocation risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are comfortably fitting over the mattress, and make sure there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. This will decrease the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and also the stress of buying a new bed every time their child grows from a baby to a toddler.
The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, have doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage the child's independence and encourages exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to keep them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will allow your child to climb into and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a traditional look, a classic style can be incorporated into any nursery decor. These cots will last for a long time because they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier for you to change your baby. You can also save space and money by not having to purchase an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots have even more creative designs, like the Pinette one, which features an wooden frame with a home-like style that is perfect to hang toys. It is also a great room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with unique design that lets it adapt to your child's needs and accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Storage
When you're decorating the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for a loved one, choosing the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that allow you to use it for a long time. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features that let you put it together at home. Some cot beds are also equipped with additional features, such as drawers under the bed or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping for infants and small children. Some models are made from fabrics or wood and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots are required to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
The majority of cots are affordable although the price may vary depending on the materials and features. 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. It's a bit expensive, but its sleek style and high-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they permit you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby to a toddler, and then into a bed of a large size. You can find beds that transform from a crib into an adult bed, or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots. They may be more expensive however, 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 that could pose a danger to your child. If you have concerns you should contact the manufacturer for assistance.