How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and cozy place for your baby to sleep. However, they can be dangerous if you don't follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its design and its ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be converted into a toddler's cot using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and comfortable environment for your child. It is important to check whether the cot is safe and meets the current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and is in compliance with the most current British standards. It should be free of labels, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangers to children from choking.
Verify that the cot has been properly assembled, particularly if it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots could have been painted with lead paint, which could be harmful to infants. Modern cots have a locking mechanism built in that stops the crib from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is critical. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot and have no gaps on either end. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is a good option, since it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will help prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base frequently, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around during sleep.
Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet an cot bed is the next step in their growth. Pick a bed or cot that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is safe during the first six months. Then, you'll need to consider a single or bunk bed when they reach their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all the necessary safety standards.
Style
For new parents, selecting a Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby, but that also looks stylish can be a difficult task. With a little research, you can find an cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The most stylish crib beds have various styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that suits your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.
There are a variety of cots available online that will suit any taste and budgets regardless of whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something else in between. Some cots are even equipped with extra features like teething rails and drawers under the bed, to help you keep your home tidy and neat!
The amount of time your cot will be used is an important factor. As soon as your child can stand up without assistance, which usually occurs around the age three it is time to transition them into a toddler's bed. For this reason, choosing a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed can be a good investment. You can purchase the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to move on the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level for security.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are popular with new parents. They can add a touch of luxury and glamour to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create an even more dramatic effect.
Always choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding such as cotton or bamboo. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will assist them in regulating their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the risk of inhaling suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will lower the chance of snagging or tripping and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and also the burden of purchasing an entirely new bed each time their child develops from a infant to an adult.
The design of the convertible cot permits for customisation. It can include sides that are static, with doors or that fold down to allow easy access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some also have clear panel options which let your child see their surroundings, fostering independence and a sense of exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental needs. The highest position is typically used during the first few months, but as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. When your child is able sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will still allow your child to climb in and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional style traditional style, a classic design can be incorporated into any nursery decor. cot sales are generally made of durable and strong wood that can stand the test of time. The slats are spaced to ensure the safety of your little one and they're coated with non-toxic paints.
Other cots are a little more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots come with a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. It will also save you the cost and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots are even more innovative than that and include the Pinette which features an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and is the ideal place to sleep in when surrounded by a sheet. It is also built to last with a unique design that lets it expand with your child and can accommodate a 10-year-old junior bed.
Storage
If you're planning to furnish the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your child, choosing the right cot bed is an important investment. Pick a cot that can be used for a long period of time and can be adjusted to the needs of your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and rails for teething. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features that allow you to put it together at home. Some cot-beds have additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable sleeping frames designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made from 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 the strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their kind.
The majority of cots are affordable even though the price can differ based on the materials and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot made by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's expensive, but its sleek style and quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cot beds provide an excellent return on your initial investment, extending the use of your furniture as your baby grows into a toddler, and eventually, a full-size bed. There are options that convert from a crib to a toddler bed, or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than traditional cribs. They can be more expensive however, they last longer.
Think about where you'll put the cot, and how big the room is before you purchase one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure that the area is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a secondhand cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could be a threat to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.