How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its design and ease of assembly and quality construction. It's suitable for infants and can be converted into a toddler bed by 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 consideration is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure that a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers which could create dangers to choking and any protrusions on the top rail that could catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Verify that the cot is being put together correctly, particularly when it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been sprayed with lead paint, which can be toxic to babies. Newer models usually come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't collapse or fold down when your child is in.
Baby Cot is crucial to select the right mattress for your child. It should be sturdy, fit snugly inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. 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 base height, so you can lower the mattress as they increase in size. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, as well as reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base frequently especially if your child begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their crib or bassinet, the next step is the cot bed. Choose a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure that your baby is protected throughout the first six months. As they age and require more space, you might be considering a bunk bed or single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to choose a Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. However, with a little bit of research you can find the perfect crib for your baby, which will look stylish and fit your decor. The top crib beds offer various styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something modern, traditional or a mix of both There's a wide variety of cots available online that will suit every budget and taste. Some cots come with extra features such as teething rails or drawers under the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important factor. When your child is able to stand without assistance, which is typically around the age of three and up, you should transition them into a toddler's bed. A cot that can be converted into a toddler's bed is a good investment. You can purchase the mattress separately and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to its lowest level.
Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four poster design for their cot. They can add the look of luxury and glamour to any nursery, and work best in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by curtains or a canopy for a more dramatic effect.
It is recommended to choose breathable fabrics for your baby's crib like bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they could pose a danger of inhaling suffocation. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are securely fit over the mattress and ensure there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the mattress. This will decrease the chance of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This can save parents money and the burden of purchasing a new bed every time their child grows from a infant to a toddler.
The convertible cot design has customizable sides that can be static, feature doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to decrease the chance of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. They also come with clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings, encouraging independence and an appreciation for exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental needs. The highest position is typically used in the initial few months, but as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest base position that will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a traditional look traditional style, a classic design will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made with durable and sturdy wood that will last for a long time. The slats are spaced to ensure the safety of your little one and they're coated with non-toxic paints.
Some cots are more modern and include features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier to change your baby. This will also save you the expense and space required to have a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots are more innovative than others like the Pinette which has an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and is the ideal place to sleep in when it's covered with a bed sheet. It's built to last, with a unique design that allows it to adapt to your child's needs and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for a loved one, finding the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Select a cot that is able to 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 teething rails. Choose a model with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for small children and infants. Some models are constructed of a lightweight wood or fabric and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots are required to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot may vary depending on materials and extra features, the majority are within budget. 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. Although it's a bit more expensive than the average, its sleek design and durable construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds can be a good investment because they permit you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a newborn to a toddler, and finally to a larger bed. There are options that transform from a crib into an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than standard cribs. They are more costly however they last longer.
Think about where you'll put the cot, and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from any heating sources or direct sunlight and must be ventilated. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and toys. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you check the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.