How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and cozy place for your baby's sleep. However, they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty, ease of assembly, and quality construction. It is suitable for babies from birth, and can be converted into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing a second-hand or heirloom cot, it is essential to ensure that it meets the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must also be free of stickers and other transfers that could pose the risk of choking, as well as any protrusions from the top rail that might get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is properly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Modern cots have a locking mechanism built in that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is crucial. It should be firm, fit snugly into the cot and have no gaps at either end. You should also consider using a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from accidents and extend its life.
A cot with adjustable base height is a great choice, as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, and will reduce the chance of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the height of the base frequently especially after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling in their sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib or bassinet then the next step is the cot bed. Select a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 for the bed. This will ensure your baby is protected throughout the first six months. As they grow older, you may want to consider a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
For new parents, choosing the right Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby but that also looks great is a daunting task. With a bit of study, you can locate an cot that is stylish and fits your home decor. The most stylish cot beds come with different styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts, so you can choose the one that best suits the room of your baby and your style preferences.
If you're looking for something classic, modern or something in between There's a huge variety of cots available online that can be adapted to all budgets and tastes. Some cots come with extra features like 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. Once your child is able to stand without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three, you will want to transition them into a toddler's bed. Therefore, selecting a cot that will convert into a toddler bed may be a great investment. You can buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to go on the base of the bed can be lowered down to its lowest setting to ensure security.
Many parents also pick the sleigh or four-poster cot design. online cots can add a touch of elegance and class to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. cots offers can also be complemented with curtains or a canopy for a more dramatic effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding, you should always aim for breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they could pose a danger of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets which fit perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the mattress. This will reduce the risk of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, because they can be easily transformed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child when they grow from infant to toddler.
The convertible cot design has sides that can be made to be static, have doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This promotes an attitude of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds are adjustable to accommodate your baby's development requirements. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to prevent them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will still allow him or her to climb into and out of the cot without injury.
Those looking for more of a traditional look can opt for a classic style that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are usually constructed of durable and strong wood that will stand the test of time. The slats of the cot are also closely spaced for your child's safety. 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 include a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette one, which features wooden frames with a house-like design which is perfect for hanging toys. It also makes a great secret room when covered with a sheet. It's built to last, with a a unique extendable design that allows it to grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Storage
Finding the right cot is a wise investment whether you're decorating your nursery or creating a baby cozy space for a beloved. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will let you use it for many years. Look for a design with flatpack features that allows you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds are also equipped with extras, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for babies and small children. Some models are made from lightweight fabrics or wood with simple mattresses. Others are more sturdy and can be transformed into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots must to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot can vary in relation to the materials used and other features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's a bit expensive, but its sleek design and sturdy construction make it an excellent 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 a full size bed. There are a variety of options that can convert the crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots and can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.
Think about where you'll put the cot and how big the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, ensure that the space is free of any clutter and other dangers like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions which could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.