How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are the safety, comfort and secure environment for your child to sleep. However, they can be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.
Our top choice is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib that has received high marks for its beauty, quality construction and the ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the time of birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's cot using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your child. It is crucial to verify whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is essential to ensure that a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must be free of any stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could pose choking hazards.
Verify that the cot has been assembled correctly, especially if it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which is toxic to babies. Modern cots have a locking mechanism built in that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is also crucial. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector with waterproof properties to shield the fabric from damage and prolong its life.
It is best to choose a cot that has an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as they increase in size. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and will reduce the chance of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base regularly particularly after your child has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, an cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they age you may be considering a bunk bed or single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the best Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. However, with a little bit of research you can find the perfect cot for your baby that looks elegant and complement your home decor. The best crib beds offer various styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking for something traditional, modern or a mix of both There's a wide selection of cots online that can meet the needs of all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The length of time your cot will be used is an important aspect. You will want to move your child into an adult bed as soon as they can stand up on their own and sit up on their own, which is usually at around the age of three. This is why opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed can be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are popular with new parents. These can bring the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery and work best in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by curtains or a canopy for added effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding it is best to opt for fabrics that are breathable, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they could pose a danger of inhaling suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that fit perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. cheap cots will decrease the chance of tripping or snagging and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily to a toddler or junior bed for families growing. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they grow from infant to toddler.
The convertible cot design features sides that can be made to be static, feature doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This promotes independence and a feeling of exploration.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and stages of development. The highest setting is used in the initial few months, then as your child grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit up unaided you can select the lowest base position which allows them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional look traditional style, a classic design will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time because they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats of the cot are also tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are more modern and include features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots include changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet to change your baby.
Some cots come with ingenious designs, like the Pinette, which has a wooden frame with a house-like design which is perfect to hang toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for a loved one, selecting the best crib bed is a crucial investment. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will let you use it for a long time. Find a cot that's easy to put together, with flatpack features that let you make it yourself at home. Some cot-beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for babies and small children. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric with a simple mattress. Others are more sturdy and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must be in compliance with strict UK safety standards, regardless of their type.
While the price of a cot varies according to the materials used and additional features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. Although it's a bit on the expensive side, its sleek design and high-end construction make this a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds offer an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of the furniture as your tot develops into a toddler and eventually, a full-sized bed. You can find options that transform from a crib into a toddler bed or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than standard cots, and they are more expensive, but they offer greater longevity.
When purchasing a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the room is. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. If you have any concerns you should contact the manufacturer for advice.