How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure environment for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous however, if you do not adhere to safety rules.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its design and ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies from the time of birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable 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 heirloom cot been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It should be free of stickers, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangers to children from choking.
Verify that the cot has been properly assembled, particularly in the case of a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Newer models usually come with a locking mechanism that ensures the cot can't collapse or fold when your child is in.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also important. tots and cots should be sturdy and fit snugly in the cot, with no gaps on either side. You should also consider using a waterproof mattress protector to shield the fabric from accidents and extend 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 prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also reducing the risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base on a regular basis especially if your child begins crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
After your baby has outgrown their bassinet or crib, it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their growth. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for a bed. This will ensure your baby is protected for the first six months. As they get older, you may be considering a bunk bed or single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet the required 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 little research, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The top crib beds have a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that is best suited to the room of your baby and your style preferences.
Whether you're looking for something traditional, modern or somewhere in between There's a wide variety of cots available online that will suit all tastes and budgets. Some cots have additional features such as teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time your cot will be used is another important factor. It is recommended to move your child to a toddler bed at the time they are able to stand up on their own, which usually happens around the age of three. For this reason, opting for a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed can be a great investment. You can buy the mattress separately and, when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest setting.
The sleigh and four poster crib designs are also popular choices for new parents. They can add the look of luxury and glamour to any nursery, and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set for a more dramatic effect.
It is recommended to choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets that are heavy that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that fit comfortably over the mattress. 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 converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for growing families. This can save parents the cost and hassle of purchasing an entirely new bed for their child as they move from baby to toddler.
The design of the convertible cot allows the possibility of customizing. It can include sides that are stationary, with doors or that fold down to provide easy access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to view their surroundings. This helps encourage the child's independence and encourages exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the settings to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit without assistance, you can choose 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 traditional style, a classic design can be incorporated into any nursery decor. These cots are generally made of durable and strong wood that can last for a long time. The slats are spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are even more creative than that and include the Pinette which has an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and is the ideal place to sleep in when surrounded by a sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child and can accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
When you're decorating the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, finding the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Pick a cot that is 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 permit you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are constructed of wood or fabric that is lightweight and have a mattress that is simple, whereas others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of the design.
Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can vary depending on the materials and features. For example the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. Although it's more expensive than the average but its sleek design and quality construction make this a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they permit you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby into an adult, and eventually into a bed of a large size. There are options that transform from a crib into an adult bed, or even a sofa. These beds tend to be larger than the traditional cribs. They can be more expensive however they last longer.
Consider where you will place the cot and how large the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from direct sunlight or heaters, and they should be well-ventilated. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you check the frame for any protrusions that could be a threat to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any questions.