How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby to rest. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety rules.
Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib that has received praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as the ease of assembly. It's suitable for infants and can be transformed to a toddler bed with 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 it complies with current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It should also be free of stickers and transfers which could create dangers to choking and any protrusions from the top rail that could be able to catch your child's clothes or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is properly assembled, especially when it's a second-hand or an older model. best cot newborn might have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to infants. Modern cots have a locking mechanism which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is critical. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also use a waterproof mattress protector to shield the fabric from damage and extend its life.
It is recommended to select a cot with an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they increase in size. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also reducing the risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the height of the base frequently especially after your child is starting to pull themselves up and crawling during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their bassinet, or crib then the next step is the purchase of a cot-bed. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for a bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their lives. After that, you'll want to consider a bunk or single bed when they reach their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet all the necessary safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a little research, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The best cots come in a variety of styles, including solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can pick one that is in line with your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking for something traditional, modern or a mix of both, there are a wide variety of cots available online that will suit all budgets and tastes. Some cots are even equipped with extra features such as teething rails and drawers under the bed, to help you keep everything neat and tidy!
The amount of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. nursery cots will want to move your child into an adult bed at the time they can sit up without assistance typically at the age of 3. Therefore, choosing a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are popular choices for new parents. These can add the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create an even more dramatic effect.
Always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's crib, such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets that are heavy, as these could pose a suffocation risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are securely fitting over the mattress, and ensure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will reduce the risk of tripping or snagging and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily into a junior or toddler bed for growing families. This can save parents the expense and hassle of buying an entirely new bed for their child when they transition from toddler to baby.
The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, feature doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to decrease the risk of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This encourages the child's independence and encourages exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental requirements. The highest setting is used during the first few months, then as your baby grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will allow them to climb into and out the cot safely.
For those who prefer traditional design can go 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 are made of strong and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are more modern and come with features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots include changing tables to make it easier to change your child. This can also help you save the cost and space required to have a separate changer cabinet in your home.
Some cots feature more ingenious designs, like the Pinette one, which features an wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is perfect to hang toys. It also makes a great secret room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last, with unique design that lets it grow with your child and accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Stores
The right cot for your child is a wise investment, whether you're furnishing a nursery or creating a friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that allow you to make use of it for a long time. Look for a design with flatpack features that allow you to put it together yourself. Some cot-beds have additional features, like drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for babies and toddlers. 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. Whatever the model, all cots have to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot varies in relation to the materials used and other features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. It's expensive, but its sleek style and high-quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they permit you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a baby into an adult, and eventually into a bed of a large size. There are nursery cots of options that transform cribs into toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than the traditional cribs. They may be more expensive however they last longer.
Think about where you'll put the cot and how big the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.