How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are secure and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to follow safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib that received high marks for its beauty and construction quality, as well as ease of assembly. It's suitable from birth and can be converted to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. It is crucial to verify if it meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers which could create the risk of choking as well as any protrusions on the top rail which could get caught in your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also worth checking that the cot is assembled, particularly in the case of a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots could have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Newer models typically come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot doesn't collapse or fold while your child is inside.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is also critical. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot and have no gaps on either side. You should also consider using a mattress protector that is waterproof to protect the fabric from injuries and prolong its life.
It is recommended to select a cot with an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as they grow. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, as well as reducing the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to measure the height of the base frequently, especially if your baby begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib or bassinet then the next step is the purchase of a cot-bed. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure that your baby is secure throughout the first six months. Then, you'll need to consider a single or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
For new parents, choosing a Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby but that is also stylish can be a challenge. With a bit of investigation, you can find a cot that looks stylish and fits your home decor. The most stylish crib beds have various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts which means you can pick the one that is best suited to your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.
There are many cots online that will suit any taste and budgets regardless of whether you're seeking a traditional, modern or something else in between. Some cots even come with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to help keep your home tidy and neat!
The length of time that your cot will be used is an important factor. Once your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is typically at around the age of three it is time to move them to a toddler's bed. For this reason, choosing a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed may be a good investment. You'll be able to buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to leave, the base of the bed can be lowered down to its lowest setting for security.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are a popular choice for many new parents. These can provide an element of luxury and glamour to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding, you should always aim for soft fabrics such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. It is also recommended to avoid using blankets with heavy weights, as these could pose a suffocation risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly to the mattress and ensure there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will decrease the chance of snagging or tripping and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for families growing. This can save parents the expense and hassle of purchasing an entirely new bed for their child as they move from infant to toddler.
The convertible cot design features sides that can be made to be static, have doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment, and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. There are also clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings, encouraging independence and a sense of exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental needs. As your baby grows you can lower the position to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will allow your child to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style can be incorporated into 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. Additionally, they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and come with features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top that makes it easier for you to change your baby. This will also save you the expense and space of having a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots are more innovative than that like the Pinette that has an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and is the ideal secret den when surrounded by a sheet. It is also built to last, with a unique design that lets it adapt to your child's needs and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your loved one, finding the right cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features that allow you to 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 frames for sleeping designed specifically for children and infants. Some models are made of light wood or fabric with a simple mattress. Others are more robust, and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots are required to comply with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot may vary in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. For example, the budget Westport cot made by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and includes easy-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's on the expensive side, but its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment as they allow you to utilize 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 a toddler bed or even sofas. These beds are generally larger than standard cots, and are more expensive, but they provide longer-lasting use.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot, and how big the room is before you purchase one. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and toys. If linked resource site buying a used cot, be sure to check the frame for any protrusions which could pose a danger to your child. If linked resource site are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for assistance.