How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. However they can also be risky if you don't adhere to safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its aesthetics and ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It's suitable from birth and can be converted to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important consideration is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm whether a second-hand or heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must be free of any stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could create dangers to children from choking.
Check that the cot is being assembled correctly, especially if it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted with leaded paint, which is toxic to babies. Newer models typically come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot can't collapse or fold down when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is important. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot with no gaps on either side. You should also consider using a waterproof mattress protector to protect the fabric from injuries and prolong its life.
A cot with adjustable base height is an ideal choice as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will help prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of bed, as well as decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the base height regularly especially after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib, or bassinet, the next step is a cot-bed. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they grow older you may think about the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet the required safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect cot for your baby that looks elegant and complement your decor. The best cots come in different styles, including solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or a mix of both There's a wide range of cots on the market that can meet the needs of every budget and taste. Some cots come with extra features like teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
The amount of time your cot will be used is another important factor. It is recommended to move your child into an adult bed at the time they are able to sit up without assistance and sit up on their own, which is usually around the age of three. This is why selecting a cot that will convert into a toddler bed may be a good investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed's base to the lowest setting.
Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four poster design for their cot. They can add an element of glamour and luxury to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for a more dramatic effect.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding You should aim for breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. cheap cot bed is more gentle on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they could pose a risk of suffocation. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are securely fit over the mattress and ensure there aren't any gaps between the two sides of the bed. This will reduce the chance of snagging and tripping, and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for families that are growing as they can be easily changed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can help parents save money and avoid the burden of purchasing a new bed every time their child grows from a infant to a 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 reduce the risk of entrapment and create a secure 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.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's developmental needs and needs. The highest setting is used for the first few months, but as your child grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to prevent them from falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest base position that will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style can be incorporated into any nursery decor. These cots are generally made of durable and strong wood that will stand the test of time. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety and they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. This will also save you the expense and space of having a separate changer cabinet in your home.
crib sets feature more ingenious designs, like the Pinette that has wooden frames with a house-like design that is perfect to hang toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with sheets. It's built to last, with a unique design that lets it expand with your child and can accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Storage
If you're planning to furnish the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, finding the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to make use of it for a long time. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, with flatpack features that allow you to make it yourself at home. Some cot-beds have additional features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for small children and infants. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more substantial, and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots must to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot can vary in relation to the materials used and other features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to put together and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's a bit on the expensive side, but its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cots offer the best return on your initial investment, extending the use of the furniture as your child develops into a toddler and eventually a full-sized bed. You can pick from a variety of options that convert cribs into toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are generally larger than traditional cots, and they can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.
When you are buying a cot, think about where you'll put it and how big the room is. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. If you have concerns ask the manufacturer assistance.