How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer the safety, comfort and secure place for your child to rest. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not adhere to safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its beauty and its ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies from birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is important to check that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recent British standards. It should be free of labels, transfers and protrusions that could cause dangers to children from choking.
Make sure the cot is being put together correctly, particularly in the case of an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been sprayed with lead paint which is toxic for infants. Newer models typically have a built-in locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't fold or collapse when your child is in.
It is important to choose the best mattress for your child. It should be firm and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and extend its life.
A cot with adjustable base height is a good option, since it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of the bed, and reduce the chance of SIDS. It is a good idea to check the height of the base regularly particularly if your child starts crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, a cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. Then, you'll need to consider a single bed or bunk bed when they reach their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet the required safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick a Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. However, with a little bit of research you can locate the perfect crib for your baby that will look stylish and fit your decor. The best cots come in a variety of designs, such as solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can pick one that matches your style and the space of your baby.
There are many cots online to fit all tastes and budgets, whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots are even equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers, to help you keep everything neat and tidy!
The amount of time your cot will be used is another important factor. It is recommended to move your child to an adult bed as soon as they can sit up without assistance and sit up on their own, which is usually around the age of three. Therefore, selecting an cot that converts into a toddler bed could be a good investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.
The sleigh and four-poster crib designs are also popular with new parents. These can add a touch luxury and glamour to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for a more striking effect.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding it is best to opt for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. This is gentler on your baby's delicate skin and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can increase the danger of inhaling suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that are comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will decrease the risk of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for families that are growing as they can be easily converted into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will spare parents the expense and hassle of purchasing an entirely new bed for their child as they move from infant to toddler.
The design of the convertible cot provides the possibility of customizing. It can have sides that are stationary with doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to reduce the chance of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panel options which let your child see their surroundings, which can help foster independence and a sense of exploration.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions that can be adjusted to meet your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can choose the lowest base position that will allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional style traditional style, a classic design will fit in with any nursery decor. The cots will last a lifetime because they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier for you to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots come with creative designs, like the Pinette that has an wooden frame with a house-like design which is perfect for hanging toys. It can also be a great hidden den when covered by sheets. It's built to last, with a an exclusive design that lets it expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for your child, choosing the right cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time, adapting to your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Choose a model that is easy to put together, with flatpack features allowing you to piece it together at home. Some cot beds also come with extras, like drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Some models are made of fabrics or wood and feature a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots have to meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of the type.
While the cost of a cot varies according to the materials used and additional features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to put together 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 offer an excellent return on your initial investment, as they allow for the use of the furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually a full-sized bed. There are a variety of options that can convert cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than the traditional cots. They are more expensive however, they last longer.
When purchasing a cot, take into consideration where it will be placed and how big the space is. Cots should be placed away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Make sure that the area is free of toys, clutter, blankets, and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to examine the frame for any protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact good cribs if you have any concerns.