How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety rules.
Our top choice is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib that has received high marks for its design and construction quality, as well as ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the time of birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your baby. The most important consideration is whether the cot meets current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing an heirloom or second-hand crib, it is crucial to ensure it complies with the most current British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any stickers, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangerous choking.
Verify that the cot has been assembled correctly, especially in the case of a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots may have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to babies. Modern cots come with an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the cot from folding or collapsing while your child is inside.
It is important to choose the right mattress for your child. Baby Cot Bed Cots For Tots UK must be firm and snugly inserted into the cot with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover made of waterproof to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is a great choice, as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling off of the bed, as well as helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base regularly, especially if your baby begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their bassinet, or crib then the next step is a cot-bed. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they age, you may want to consider a bunk bed or single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick the best Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. But with a little research you can find the perfect cot for your baby that looks elegant and complement your decor. The top crib beds have a range of styling options that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or somewhere in between There's a huge range of cots on the market that can meet the needs of all tastes and budgets. Some cots are even equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers under the bed, to help you keep your home tidy and neat!
Another important factor to consider is the length of time you will use of your cot. You'll want to transfer your child into an adult bed at the time they are able to stand up on their own, which usually happens at the age of 3. For this reason, selecting a cot that will convert into a toddler bed can be a great investment. You can buy the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to move on the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level for security.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are popular choices for 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 a canopy or curtains to the set for an even more striking effect.
Always select breathable bedding for your baby's bed, such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps either side of the mattress. This will reduce the risk of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily into a junior or toddler bed for families that are growing. This will save parents the cost and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child when they transition from toddler to baby.
The design of the convertible cot provides the user to customize. It can have sides that are static with doors or fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to decrease the risk of entrapment, and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This encourages an attitude of independence and exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions that can be adjusted to meet 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 stop them from falling out of the cot. Once your child can sit up unaided you can select the lowest base position which will still allow them to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you're looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic design that blends seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots will last a lifetime because they're made from robust and durable wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and come with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some cots include a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. It will also save you the cost and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots have even more ingenious designs, like the Pinette that has an wooden frame with a house-like design that is ideal to hang toys. It is also a great room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with a unique extendable design that can grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Storage
The right cot for your child is a wise investment, whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a child comfortable space for your loved one. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long period of time, adapting to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot beds also come with extras, like drawers underneath the bed or changing tops that can be removed.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping that are suitable for infants and small children. Some models are made of light fabrics or wood with a simple mattress. Others are more sturdy and can be transformed into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots have to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the cost of a cot may vary in relation to the materials used and other features, they are generally within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. Although it's a bit more expensive than the average, its sleek design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds can be a good investment since they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a newborn to an adult, and eventually to a larger bed. There are a variety of options that convert a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than the traditional cots. They may be more costly however, they last longer.
When purchasing a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the room is. Cots should be kept away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Also, make sure the area is clear of any clutter and other dangers like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, be sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any questions.