How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide the safety, comfort and secure place for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous, however in the event that you don't adhere to safety rules.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley cot bed that has received praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as ease of assembly. It's suitable for infants and can be made into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer an environment that is safe and comfortable for your child. 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 heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should be free of stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could cause dangerous choking.
It's also important to make sure that the cot is properly assembled, especially if it's a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots could have been painted using lead paint, which can be poisonous to babies. Modern models have a locking mechanism built in that stops the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
It is important to choose the best cots mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also consider using a waterproof mattress protector to protect the fabric from damage and prolong its life.
A cot that has an 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 off of bed, and reduce the chance of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the base height regularly especially after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their bassinet, or crib then the next step is the cot bed. Choose a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure your baby is safe during the first six months. As they grow older you may want to consider a bunk bed or single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that are compliant with all safety standards.
Style
For parents who are new, deciding on a Cot Bed that's safe for your baby, but that also looks great can be a challenge. With a bit of investigation, you can find a cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The Best cot for newborn cots are available in a variety of styles, including solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something traditional, modern or a mix of both There's a huge range of cots on the market that will suit all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important aspect. It is recommended to move your child into a toddler bed as soon as they can stand up on their own typically at the age of 3. A cot that can be transformed into a bed for toddlers is a great investment. You can buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to go on, the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level to ensure safety.
The sleigh and four-poster crib designs are also popular choices for new parents. They can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any room and work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
When it concerns bedding for your baby, you should always aim for soft fabrics such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and will assist them in regulating their temperature. It is also recommended to avoid using blankets with heavy weights because they can pose an obstructing risk. It is recommended cribs to use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the mattress. This will reduce the chance of tripping or snagging and also increase the security of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily into a junior or toddler bed for growing families. This can save parents the cost and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they grow from baby to toddler.
The design of the convertible cot provides the possibility of customizing. It can have sides that are static and have doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. There are also clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings, which can help foster independence and a sense of exploration.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's developmental needs and needs. As your baby grows, you can lower the setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child can sit up on their own without assistance, you can use the lowest base position which will still allow them to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time as they're made of durable and sturdy wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the safety of your little one and are coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cribs are more modern with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier to change your baby. This will also save you the expense and space required to have a separate changer cabinet in your home.
Some cots are even more innovative than that and include the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design which is perfect to hang toys from and is the perfect place to hide when covered with a sheet. It's built to last, with a a unique extendable design that allows it to expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your loved one, finding the right crib bed is an essential investment. Pick a cot that can be used for a long period of time and can be adjusted to the needs of your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Choose a model that is easy to put together, with flatpack features that allow you to put it together at home. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable sleeping frames designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have simple mattresses. Others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots must to comply with strict UK safety standards.
The majority of cots are affordable however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. For example, the budget Westport cot made by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. It's a little expensive, however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cots offer a great return on your initial investment, extending the use of your furniture as your child develops into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. You can choose from options that convert cribs into toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than standard cribs. They can be more expensive however, they last longer.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot, and how big the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be placed away from any heating sources or direct sunlight and must be ventilated. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any questions.