How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and cozy place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety rules.
Our top choice is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib, which earned high marks for its beauty and construction quality, as well as ease of assembly. It is suitable from the time of birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is crucial to verify if it meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should be free of stickers, transfers and protrusions that could create dangerous choking.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to babies. Modern models have a locking mechanism built in which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
It is essential to choose the correct mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use a mattress cover made of waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.
It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable height base which allows you to lower the mattress as your children grow. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and will reduce the chance 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.
After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet an cot bed is the next step in their growth. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 as a bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. Then, you'll need to think about a single bed or bunk bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
For new parents, selecting the right Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby but that is also stylish can be a challenge. However, with a little bit of research you can find the ideal crib for your baby that will look elegant and complement your decor. The most stylish cot beds come with different styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something traditional, modern or a mix of both There's a huge selection of cots online that can be adapted to all tastes and budgets. Some cots have additional features such as teething rails or drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The amount of time your cot will be used is an important factor. Once your child can stand up without assistance, which usually occurs around the age three and up, you should move them to the bed of a toddler. A cot that can be converted into a toddler's bed is a great investment. You'll be able to buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to move on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest level for security.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four poster cot designs. These designs can add elegance and luxury to any room and work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by curtains or a canopy to add a touch of elegance.
Always select cheap cot beds for your baby's bed, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they could pose a risk of inhaling suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will decrease the risk of tripping and snagging, and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be changed easily into a junior or toddler bed for families growing. This can save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed every time their child grows from a baby to a toddler.
The design of the convertible cot provides the possibility of customizing. It can have sides that are static and have doors, or fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to reduce the chance of entrapment and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage the child's independence and encourages 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 setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will allow him or her to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
Those looking for more of traditional style can opt for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly 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 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 come with 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 will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is perfect to hang toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with sheets. It's also built to last with unique design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Stores
Finding the right cot is a wise investment, whether you are furnishing the nursery or creating a baby comfortable space for your loved one. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to make use of it for a long time. Find a cot with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable frames that are designed for children and infants. Some models are constructed of a lightweight wood or fabric and have a mattress that is simple, whereas others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of the design.
While the price of a cot can vary depending on materials and extra features, they are generally within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's a little expensive, but its sleek design and high-quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cot-beds can be a good investment as they let you make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a baby into an adult, and eventually a full size bed. You can pick from a variety of options that can convert cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than standard cots, and they are more expensive, but they provide longer-lasting use.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, ensure that you inspect the frame for any protrusions which could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.