How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure place for your child to sleep. However they can be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib that received high marks for its beauty and construction quality, as well as the ease of assembly. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and secure environment for your baby. It is important to check whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm whether a second-hand or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It should also be free of stickers and other transfers that could present dangers to choking as well as any protrusions from the top rail which could get caught in your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is properly assembled, especially if it's a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which could be poisonous to babies. Modern cots usually include a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't collapse or fold while your child is inside.
It is crucial to select the right mattress for your child. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also use a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from damage and extend its life.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is a good choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to measure the height of the base regularly, especially if your baby begins to crawl and pull themselves up in bed.
Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their development. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their lives. As they get older you may want to consider a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select the right Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a bit of research, you can find the perfect cot for your baby, which will look elegant and complement your home decor. The best cots come in different styles, including solid fronts and sides with slats. You can pick one that complements 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 are equipped with additional features such as teething rails or drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
Another important factor to consider is the duration of use of your cot. As soon as your child is able to stand up without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three, you will want to transition them into a toddler's bed. This is why choosing an cot that converts into a toddler bed may be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress separately and, when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.
The sleigh and four-poster crib designs are also popular choices for new parents. These designs can add elegance and luxury to any space, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with a canopy or curtains for added effect.
You should always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bed such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and will help regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights, as these could pose a suffocation risk. You should use fitted sheets that are comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps either side of the mattress. This will decrease the risk of snagging and tripping, and also increase the security of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they grow from baby to toddler.
The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, have doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings. This promotes independence and a feeling of 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 stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
For those who prefer traditional style can opt for a classic style that blends seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they're made of durable and sturdy wood. The slats of the cot are also closely spaced for your child's safety. They are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and include features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even come with a baby changing top to make it easier for you to change your baby. It will also save you the cost and space required to have a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots have even more ingenious designs, like the Pinette, which has a wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is perfect for hanging toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with sheets. It is also built to last with a unique design that allows it to expand with your child and can accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your loved one, selecting the best cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time, adapting to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and teething rails. Look for best crib newborn that's easy to put together, with flatpack features that let you piece it together at home. Some cot beds come with additional features, such as drawers underneath the bed or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are light, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for children and infants. Some models are made from wood or fabric that is lightweight and feature a simple mattress while others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots have to meet the strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.
The majority of cots are affordable although the price may vary depending on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to construct and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's expensive, however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they allow you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a newborn to an adult, and eventually into a bed of a large size. You can choose from options that transform the crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots, and may cost more, but they provide longer-lasting use.
When you are buying a cot, take into consideration where it will be placed and how big the room is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of toys, clutter, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could be a threat to your child. If you have concerns ask the manufacturer advice.