How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure place for your child to sleep. However, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley cot bed, which earned high marks for its beauty and quality construction, as well as its ease of assembly. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is essential to determine whether the cot is safe and meets the current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recent British standards. It should also be free of stickers and other transfers that could pose dangers to choking as well as any protrusions on the top rail that might get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also worth checking that the cot is assembled, particularly when it's a second-hand or a vintage model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which can be harmful to infants. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
It is crucial to select the right mattress for your child. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot, and have no gaps on either end. You should also use a waterproof mattress protector to shield the fabric from damage and prolong its life.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is a great choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, and reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base frequently especially after your child has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib or bassinet then the next step is the cot bed. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for a bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their lives. After that, you'll want to consider a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select the best Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can find the perfect cot for your baby that will look stylish and match your decor. The best crib beds have various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
There are plenty of cots on the market that will suit any taste and budgets regardless of whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something else in between. Some cots even come with extra features like teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib to help keep everything neat and tidy!
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the duration of use of your cot. Once your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically around the age three and up, you should change them into the bed of a toddler. A cot that can be converted into a toddler's bed is a great investment. You can buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to leave the base of the bed can be lowered down to its lowest setting for safety.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster cot design. These designs can add luxury and glamour to any room and work particularly well in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create an even more striking effect.
When it concerns bedding for your baby You should aim for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and will help regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets with heavy weights, as these could pose the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets which fit comfortably over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will decrease the chance of snagging or tripping and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families that are growing as they can easily changed into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents the cost and hassle of buying an entirely new bed for their child as they move from infant to toddler.
The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be static, feature doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. They also come with clear panel options which allow your child to see their surroundings, encouraging the sense of independence and exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. As Full Statement grows you can lower the setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest base position which allows them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a traditional look, a classic style will fit in with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last a lifetime because they are made of durable and sturdy wood. The slats of the cot are carefully spaced for your child's safety and they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cribs are more modern with features like built-in storage and rails for teething. Some even come with a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. This can also help you save the expense and space required to have a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots come with ingenious designs, like the Pinette one, which features wooden frames with a house-like design which is perfect to hang toys. It can also be a great hidden bedroom when it is covered with sheets. It's also built to last thanks to its a unique extendable design that allows it to expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Storage
The right cot for your child is a wise investment whether you're decorating a nursery or creating a comfortable space for your loved one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, and has flatpack features that allow you to put it together at home. Some cot beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for infants and small children. Some models are made of fabrics or wood and feature a simple mattress while others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must be in compliance with strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their type.
Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can vary depending on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. Although it's a bit expensive but its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment since they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a newborn to an adult, and eventually to a larger bed. You can find options that transform from a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than standard cots, and they may cost more, but they offer greater longevity.
When buying a cot think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. Cots should be placed away from heat sources or direct sunlight, and they should be well-ventilated. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. If you have any concerns you should contact the manufacturer for advice.