How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer the safety, comfort and secure space for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous however, if you do not adhere to safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty, ease of assembly, and high-quality construction. It's suitable from birth and can be converted into 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. It is crucial to verify if it meets the current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or heirloom cot, it is essential to ensure that it meets the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should be free of labels, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangers to children from choking.
Make sure the cot is being assembled correctly, especially when it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots could have been painted with leaded paint, which could be poisonous to babies. Modern cots usually come with a locking mechanism that ensures the cot won't collapse or fold down when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is also crucial. It should be firm and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also consider using a mattress protector with waterproof properties to shield the fabric from accidents and prolong its life.
It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they grow. This will help prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling out of bed, while also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to measure the height of the base on a regular basis particularly if your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up in bed.
Once your baby has outgrown their bassinet or crib, an cot bed is the next step in their growth. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 as a bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they get older and require more space, you might want to consider a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a bit of investigation, you can find a cot that looks stylish and fits your home decor. The best cots come in different designs, such as solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can choose one that complements your style and the space of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or a mix of both There's a wide variety of cots available online that can be adapted to all tastes and budgets. Some cots are equipped with additional features like teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things tidy and neat.
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the duration of use of your cot. It is recommended to move your child into an adult bed as soon as they are able to sit up without assistance and sit up on their own, which is usually at around the age of three. For this reason, choosing an cot that converts into a toddler bed can be a good investment. You can purchase the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to leave the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level for security.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are also popular with new parents. They can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any room, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create a more dramatic effect.
It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that fit comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the mattress. This will decrease the chance of tripping or getting caught and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily to a toddler or junior bed for growing families. This can save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed every time their child grows from a baby to an adult.
The convertible cot design features customisable sides which can be static, feature doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings, which can help foster independence and a sense of exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's changing needs. The highest setting is used in the initial few months, then as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to avoid them from falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can select the lowest base position that allows them to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you're looking for more of a traditional look can opt for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots will last a lifetime because they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features like built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some cots include changing tables to make it easier to change your child. It will also save you the expense and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots are even more innovative than others and include the Pinette which has a house design wooden frame that's perfect for hanging toys and can be the ideal secret den when covered with a sheet. cheap cot beds is built to last, with an innovative design that allows it to adapt to your child's needs and accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Stores
If you're planning to furnish the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your child, selecting the best cot bed is an important investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will allow you to use it for many years. Look for a design that's easy to put together, with flatpack features that allow you to make it yourself at home. Some cot-beds have additional features, like drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable frames that are designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are constructed of a lightweight wood or fabric and feature a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their type.
Most cots are affordable, although the price may vary depending on the materials and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. It's a little on the pricey side but its sleek style and sturdy construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they allow you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child grows from a baby into a toddler, and finally to a larger bed. There are options that can be converted from a crib to an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are typically larger than the traditional cribs. They may be more costly, but they last longer.
Consider where you will place the cot and how large the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from any direct sunlight or heaters, and they must be ventilated. Make sure the room is free of toys, clutter, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, be sure to check the frame for any protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.