How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. However they can be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which earned praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as the ease of assembly. It's suitable from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed by the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should also be free from stickers and transfers that could present the risk of choking as well as any protrusions on the top rail which could get caught in your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also worth checking that the cot is correctly assembled, especially when it's a second-hand or an older model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Modern cots have a locking mechanism that stops the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is important. It should be sturdy and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its lifespan.
It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they grow. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to check the height of the base on a regular basis, especially if your baby begins crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
When your baby is outgrowing their crib or bassinet, an cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for a bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. After that, you'll want to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet the required safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select a Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. With a bit of study, you can locate a cot that looks elegant and matches your home decor. The best cot beds come with various styles such as slatted sides, 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 plenty of cots on the market that will suit any taste and budgets, whether you're seeking a traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the length of time you will use of your cot. As soon as your child is able to stand without assistance, which is usually around the age three it is time to change them into the bed of a toddler. For this reason, choosing a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed can be a wise investment. You can purchase the mattress separately, and when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed's base to the lowest setting.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four poster design for their cot. They can add an element of elegance and class to any nursery, and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's crib like bamboo or cotton. This will be gentler on your baby's delicate skin and will help regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the danger of inhaling suffocation. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are securely fitting over the mattress, and ensure there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. This will decrease 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 transformed into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they grow from toddler to baby.
The design of the convertible cot allows the user to customize. It can include sides that are stationary with doors or fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see their surroundings. see post helps encourage independence and a feeling of exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. The highest setting is recommended for the first few months, but when your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. Once your child can sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest base position that allows them to climb into 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 usually constructed with durable and sturdy wood that will endure the test of time. The slats of the cot are also carefully spaced for your child's safety and they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some even have a baby changing table to make it easier for you to change your baby. It will also save you the cost and space of having a separate changer cabinet in your home.
Some cots are more innovative than others and include the Pinette that has an elegant wooden frame that's perfect for hanging toys and can be the ideal secret den when it's covered with a bed sheet. It is also built to last, with a unique design that allows it to expand with your child and can accommodate a 10-year-old junior bed.
Stores
Finding the ideal cot is a wise investment, whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a child comfortable space for your loved one. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time and can be adjusted to the needs of your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Look for a design with flatpack features that allows you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds also come with extras, like under-bed drawers or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for infants and small children. Some models are constructed of wood or fabric that is lightweight and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots must to meet strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot may 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 put together and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. It's on the expensive side, however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds offer a great return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of your furniture as your baby grows into a toddler and eventually a full-sized bed. You can pick from a variety of options that transform a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than the traditional cots. 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 should be kept away from any heating sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Also, ensure that the room is free of clutter and other dangers like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, be sure to check the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.