How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure space for your child to rest. However, they can be dangerous if you do not follow the safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib that received high marks for its beauty and quality construction, as well as its ease of assembly. It's suitable from birth and can be transformed to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and secure environment for your baby. The most important consideration is whether it complies with current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is vital to ensure that it meets the most current British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free of transfers and stickers that could present the risk of choking, as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could get caught in your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is assembled, particularly when it's a second-hand or an old model. Older cots could have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to infants. Modern models have an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
It is crucial to select the best mattress for your child. It must be firm and fit comfortably inside the cot and have no gaps on either end. Use a waterproof mattress cover to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its life.
A cot with an adjustable base height is a good choice, as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the height of the base regularly particularly after your child has begun pulling themselves up and crawling in their sleep.
If your baby has outgrown their crib, or bassinet then the next step is the purchase of a cot-bed. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for 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 a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to choose the right Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a little study, you can locate a cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The best cot beds come with a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that is best suited to your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or something in between, there are a wide selection of cots online that will suit every budget and taste. Some cots even come with additional features, such as teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib to help keep everything neat and tidy!
Another important factor to consider is the length of time you will use of your cot. As soon as your child is able to stand without assistance, which is usually around the age of three it is time to move them to the bed of a toddler. A cot that is transformed into a toddler's bed is a fantastic investment. You can buy the mattress separately, and when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four poster cot designs. These can add the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bed, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentle on baby's skin and will assist them in regulating their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets because they can pose an obstructing risk. You should use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. This will lessen the chance of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for families growing, as they can easily converted to a junior or toddler bed when the time comes. This will spare parents the expense and hassle of buying an entirely new bed for their child when they transition from baby to toddler.
The convertible cot design comes with sides that can be made to be fixed, have doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see their surroundings. This promotes an attitude of independence and 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 when your baby grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. Once your child can sit up without assistance, you can select the lowest base position which allows them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional look the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots include changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not having to purchase an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are more innovative than that like the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and is the perfect place to hide when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an exclusive design that allows it to grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Stores
When you're decorating the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, choosing the right crib bed is an essential investment. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will allow you to make use of it for a long time. Find a cot with flatpack features that allow you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds have additional features, like drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are light, portable sleeping frames designed for children and infants. Some models are made of wood or fabric that is lightweight and come with a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. top rated cots must meet strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.
While the cost of a cot can vary in relation to the materials used and other features, they are generally within budget. For example, the budget Westport cot made by 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 quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cots offer an excellent return on your initial investment, extending the use of your furniture as your child grows into a toddler, and eventually, a full-size bed. There are a variety of options that convert a crib into a toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than the traditional cots. They are more expensive however they last longer.
When you are buying a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the room is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and toys. If you're buying a secondhand cot, be sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. If you have any concerns, contact the manufacturer for guidance.