How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. However they can also be dangerous if you don't follow safety guidelines.
Our top choice is the Mamas & Papas Coxley cot bed that has received high marks for its beauty and quality construction, as well as its the ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies and can be converted to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and comfortable environment for your child. The most important thing to consider is whether it complies with current safety standards. affordable cots is crucial to confirm whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and is in compliance with the most current British standards. It should also be free of stickers and other transfers that could pose dangers to choking, as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Check that the cot has been properly assembled, particularly if it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been painted with leaded paint, which can be harmful to infants. Modern cots have an integrated locking mechanism that stops the cot from folding or collapsing when your child is in.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also crucial. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot with no gaps on either side. You should also use a waterproof mattress protector to protect the fabric from accidents and extend its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is a great option, since it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, as well as reduce the chance of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base on a regular basis especially if your child 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. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure your baby is secure during the first six months. As they grow older you may be considering a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet all safety standards.
Style
For new parents, selecting a Cot Bed that's not only secure for your baby but that also looks great can be a challenge. With a little research, you can find an cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The best cots come in various styles, including solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something modern, traditional or somewhere in between, there are a wide variety of cots available online 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 an important factor. When your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically at around the age of three, you will want to move them to a toddler's bed. This is why opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress separately, and when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster cot designs. These designs can add elegance and class to any room, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create a more striking effect.
Always choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bed such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentler on your baby's delicate skin and help regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a risk of inhaling suffocation. You should use fitted sheets which fit comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will decrease the risk of snagging and tripping, and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, because they can be easily changed into a junior or toddler bed when the time comes. This can save parents money and the hassle of having to buy an entirely new bed each time their child grows from a baby to an adult.
The convertible cot design comes with customisable sides which can be static, have doors or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the chance of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings. best cot beds helps encourage the child's independence and encourages exploration.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and stages of development. The highest setting is recommended in the initial few months, but as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
Those looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic style that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots will last a lifetime because they're made of robust and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child 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 come with a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. It will also save you the expense and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots have even more innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has a wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is ideal for hanging toys. It can also be a great hidden den when covered by a sheet. It's also built to last with an exclusive design that lets it grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Stores
Finding the ideal cot is a wise investment, whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a child cozy space for a beloved. Pick a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Find a cot with flatpack features that permit you to put it together yourself. Some cot-beds have additional features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for infants and small children. Some models are made of a lightweight wood or fabric and come with a simple mattress while others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots have to comply with strict UK safety standards.
Most cots are affordable, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. 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. Although it's a bit on the expensive side however, its sleek design and high-end construction make this a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds provide a great return on your initial investment, extending the use of your furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually 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 traditional cribs. They can be more expensive, but they last longer.
Think about where you'll put the cot, and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from heat sources or direct sunlight and should be well-ventilated. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.