How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are secure and comfortable place for your baby to rest. However they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib, which earned praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies and can be transformed into 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 thing to consider is whether the bed meets current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is vital to ensure it complies with the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should be free of labels, transfers and protrusions that could create choking hazards.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is properly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint which is toxic for infants. Modern cots usually have a built-in locking mechanism to ensure that the cot can't collapse or fold down while your child is inside.
It is essential to choose the right mattress for your child. It must be firm and fit snugly in the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its lifespan.
It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as your children grow. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and will reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the base height regularly especially after your child is starting to pull themselves up and crawling during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their crib or bassinet then the next step is a cot-bed. Selecting one that complies 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 grow older you may think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select a Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect cot for your baby, which will look stylish and match your home decor. The best cot beds come with various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
There are a variety of cots available online to fit all tastes and budgets whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something else in between. Some cots are equipped with additional features like teething rails or drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important factor. It is recommended to move your child into a toddler bed as soon as they can sit up without assistance, which usually happens at around the age of three. This is why opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a good investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest level.
Many parents also pick the sleigh or four poster cot design. They can bring the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by curtains or a canopy for a more dramatic effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby, you should always aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. Use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or getting caught and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, because they can be easily changed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents the expense and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they move from toddler to baby.
The design of the convertible cot permits for customisation. It can have sides that are stationary, with doors or that fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. There are also clear panel options which let your child see their surroundings, which can help foster independence and an appreciation for exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's changing needs. The highest setting is used during the first few months, then as your child grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will still allow your child to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional style the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they're made of robust and durable wood. The slats of the cot are carefully spaced for your child's safety. Additionally, they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet to change your baby.
Some cots are even more innovative than that like the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and can be the ideal place to sleep in when surrounded by a sheet. It is also built to last, with unique design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year-old junior bed.
Stores
Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a friendly space for a loved-one. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time, adapting to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and rails for teething. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features allowing you to put it together at home. Some cot-beds have extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable sleeping frames designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made of a lightweight wood or fabric and come with a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots have to meet strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot varies depending on materials and extra features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to put together and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. Although it's a bit expensive but its sleek design and high-end construction make this a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cots offer a great return on your initial investment, as they allow for the use of your furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. There are a variety of options that convert a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than the traditional cribs. They are more expensive, but they last longer.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how large the room is before purchasing one. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, ensure that the space is free of clutter and other hazards like toys, blankets and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. If you are concerned, contact the manufacturer for advice.