How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are the safety, comfort and secure space for your child to sleep. However, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the safety guidelines.
Our top choice is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib that has received praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as the ease of assembly. It's suitable from birth and can be made to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether it complies with current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm 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 dangerous choking.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is correctly assembled, especially when it's a second-hand or an older model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which is toxic to babies. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism that prevents the cot from folding or collapsing while your child is inside.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is also critical. It should be sturdy and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps on either side. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.
It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable base height, so you can lower the mattress as your children expand. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling out of bed, as well as reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the base height regularly, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling during sleep.
Once 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 as bed will ensure that they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their lives. After that, you'll want to think about a bunk or single bed as they enter their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet the required safety standards.
Style
For new parents, choosing a Cot Bed that's safe for your baby but that also looks great is a daunting task. With a little study, you can locate a cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The best cots come in different designs, such as solid fronts and sides with slats. You can pick one that matches your style and the room of your baby.
There are many cots online to suit all tastes and budgets regardless of whether you're searching for a modern, traditional, or something in between. Some cots even come with extra features like teething rails and drawers under the bed, to help you keep your home tidy and neat!
Another important factor to consider is the duration of use of your cot. Once your child is able to stand without assistance, which is usually at around the age of three, you will want to move them to the bed of a toddler. A cot that can be transformed into a toddler's bed is a fantastic investment. You can purchase the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to leave the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest setting for security.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are popular choices for new parents. They can provide the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery and work best in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for an additional dramatic effect.
You should always choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets, as these could pose an obstructing risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are comfortably to the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps between the two sides of the mattress. This will decrease the chance of snagging or tripping and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are great for families that are growing because they can be easily changed into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed as their child grows from baby to a toddler.
The convertible cot design comes with customisable sides which can be static, have doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to minimize the chance 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, which can help foster the sense of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted base positions to suit your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the position 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 that will still allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style will fit in with any nursery decor. These cots are usually constructed of durable and strong wood which will last for a long time. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and come with features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier for you to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots come with creative designs, like the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house-like design that is ideal for hanging toys. It is also a great room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with a unique extendable design that lets it expand 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 furnishing your nursery or creating a baby friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long period of time and adapts to your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot that's 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 portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for infants and small children. Some models are made of a lightweight wood or fabric and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots have to comply with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot may vary depending on materials and extra features, most are within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's a little expensive, but its sleek style and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they let you use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby to a toddler, and finally into a bed of a large size. There are a variety of options that transform cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are generally larger than traditional cots and are more expensive, however they are more durable.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how big the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they should be well-ventilated. Make sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and toys. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.