How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer an incredibly comfortable, safe 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 choice. It has been praised for its beauty and its ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable from the time of birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your child. The most important consideration is whether it complies with current safety standards. If you are thinking of purchasing an heirloom or second-hand crib, it is crucial to make sure it is in line with the most current British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of stickers and other transfers which could create the risk of choking, as well as any protrusions on the top rail that might be able to catch your child's clothes or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is constructed, especially if it's a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots may have been sprayed with lead paint which is toxic for babies. Modern models have an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is also critical. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also consider using a mattress protector that is waterproof to protect the fabric from injuries and extend its lifespan.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is a great choice as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling out of the bed, and will reduce the risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to check the height of the base frequently, especially if your baby begins crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, an cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 as a bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they age you may be considering the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
For parents who are new, deciding on a Cot Bed that is not only secure for your baby but that is also stylish can be a difficult task. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect cot for your baby that will look elegant and complement your decor. The most stylish cot beds come with a range of styling options, including slatted sides and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that best suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
If cheap cots looking for something modern, traditional or somewhere in between, there are a wide variety of cots available online that can be adapted to every budget and taste. Some cots come with extra features like teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things tidy and neat.
The length of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. As soon as your child can stand up without assistance, which usually occurs around the age three it is time to change them into the bed of a toddler. A cot that is converted into a toddler's bed is a good investment. You can buy the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to leave the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest level for safety.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are popular choices for new parents. They can add the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by curtains or a canopy for added effect.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding, you should always aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using best rated cribs that are heavy that are too heavy, as they could create a suffocation risk. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly fitting over the mattress, and ensure there are no gaps either side of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily to a toddler or junior bed for growing families. This will save parents the expense and hassle of buying a new bed for their child when they grow from infant to toddler.
The design of the convertible cot permits the possibility of customizing. It can include sides that are static and have doors, or fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This promotes the child's independence and encourages exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental needs. The highest position is typically used for the first few months, and as your child grows and starts 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 position for base which allows them to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional style the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made from sturdy and durable wood that will last for a long time. The slats of the cot are also tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety and they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern and have features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some cots include a changing table to make it easier to change your child. It will also save you the expense and space of having a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots come with creative designs, like the Pinette, which has wooden frames with a home-like style that is ideal for hanging toys. It is also a great room when covered with sheets. It's built to last, with unique design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate up to 10 years old junior beds.
Storage
Finding the ideal cot is a wise investment whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a child friendly space for a loved-one. Choose a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your growing child with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have simple mattresses. Others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots are required to meet strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot varies in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's expensive, however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cots offer a great return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of the furniture as your tot grows into a toddler and eventually, a full-size bed. There are options that transform from a crib into a toddler bed, or even sofas. These beds are typically larger than the traditional 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 need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a used cot, be sure to examine the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.