How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer a safe, comfortable and secure place for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous however, if you do not adhere to safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib, which earned high marks for its design, quality construction and ease of assembly. It's suitable for infants and can be made into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your child. The most important factor to consider is whether the bed meets current safety standards. If you are considering an heirloom or second-hand crib, it is crucial to make sure it is in line with the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should be free of stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could pose dangerous choking.
Check that the cot is being properly assembled, particularly if it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to infants. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism built in that stops the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is crucial. It should be firm and fit snugly in the cot, without gaps on either side. You should also use a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from injuries and prolong its life.
A cot with an adjustable base height is a great option, since it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from getting out of the cot and falling out of the bed, while also decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to measure the height of the base on a regular basis, especially if your baby starts crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
If your baby has outgrown their bassinet, or crib then the next step is a cot-bed. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. Then, you'll need to consider a bunk or single bed as they enter their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick a Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. But with a little research you can find the perfect cot for your baby, which will look stylish and match your home decor. The most stylish crib beds have various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking for something traditional, modern or something in between There's a wide selection of cots online that will suit all budgets and tastes. Some cots are equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time that your cot will be used is an important aspect. You'll want to transfer your child to an adult bed at the time they are able to sit up unaided, which usually happens at the age of 3. 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 sleep, you can lower the bed base to its lowest level.
The sleigh and four poster crib designs are also popular with new parents. They can add a touch of luxury and glamour to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create an even more dramatic effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding, you should always aim for soft fabrics such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets, as these could pose the risk of suffocation. Use fitted sheets which fit comfortably over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps either side of the mattress. This will decrease the risk of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are great for growing families as they can be easily transformed to a junior or toddler bed when the time comes. This will help parents save money and avoid the hassle of having to buy an entirely new bed each time their child develops from a infant to an adult.
The design of the convertible cot permits for customisation. It can include sides that are static and have doors, or fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to minimize the chance of entrapment and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see the world around them. This promotes the child's independence and encourages exploration.
The majority of cot beds are adjustable to accommodate your baby's development needs. The highest position is typically used for the first few months, and as your child grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. When your child is able sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.
For those who prefer a traditional look can opt for a classic design that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made with durable and sturdy wood which will last for a long time. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. They are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even come with a baby changing top to make it easier to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are even more innovative than that, such as the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal to hang toys from and is the ideal secret den when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that lets it grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Stores
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your child, selecting the best crib bed is an essential investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that allow you to use it for a long time. Look for a design with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot beds are also equipped with extras, such as under-bed drawers or removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for infants and small children. Some models are made of lightweight fabrics or wood with simple mattresses. Others are more substantial and can be converted into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots are required to comply with strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot can vary according to the materials used and additional features, they are generally within budget. 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 expensive, however its sleek design and high-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment because they allow you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a newborn to a toddler, and then a full size bed. You can find beds that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds tend to be larger than the traditional cribs. They are more costly however they last longer.
Consider where you will place the cot and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to check the frame for any protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact good cribs if you have any questions.