How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are secure and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However they can be dangerous if you don't follow safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib that has received praise for its aesthetics and quality construction, as well as its ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies and can be transformed to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether it complies with current safety standards. If you are thinking of purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is crucial to ensure that it meets the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of stickers and transfers that could pose a choking hazard as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also important to make sure that the cot is correctly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots may have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to babies. Newer models typically include a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't collapse or fold down when your child is in.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is crucial. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot with no gaps on either side. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.
It is best to choose a cot that has an adjustable height base that allows you to lower the mattress as they increase in size. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, and will reduce their risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to measure the height of the base regularly especially if your child starts crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
When your baby outgrows their bassinet, or crib and is now ready for the purchase of a cot-bed. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure that your baby is secure during the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a single or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick a Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect cot for your baby that looks stylish and match your decor. Cots For Tots come with a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits your baby's room and your style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or something in between There's a wide selection of cots online that will suit all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The length of time your cot will be used is an important factor. As soon as your child is able to stand without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three, you will want to transition them into the bed of a toddler. A cot that is transformed into a toddler's bed is a good investment. You can buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to move on, the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting for safety.
The sleigh and four poster crib designs are also popular choices for new parents. These can add a touch elegance and luxury to any space, and work especially well in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create an additional dramatic effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby, you should always aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and will help to regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets which fit comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. 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 money and the stress of buying an entirely new bed each time their child grows from a infant to an adult.
The convertible cot design has sides that can be made to be static, feature doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This encourages an attitude of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental requirements. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to keep them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest position for base which allows them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional look traditional style, a classic design can be incorporated into any nursery decor. These cots will last for a long time as they are made of robust and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and are coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features like built-in storage and rails for teething. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not needing to buy an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are more creative than that like the Pinette which has a house design wooden frame that is ideal to hang toys from and is the perfect place to hide when covered with a sheet. It is also built to last, with an innovative design that lets it adapt to your child's needs and can accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, selecting the best cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that let you make use of it for a long time. Look for a design with flatpack features that allow you to build it yourself. Some cot beds also come with extras, like drawers underneath the bed or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are light, portable frames that are designed for infants and young children. Some models are made of wood or fabric that is lightweight and feature a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots are required to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot may vary in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot beds offer the best return on your initial investment, extending the use of the furniture as your child develops into a toddler and eventually, a full-sized bed. You can find options that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are typically larger than standard cots. They are more costly however, 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 must be ventilated. Also, make sure the space is free of clutter and other dangers like toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.