How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are safe and cozy place for your baby's sleep. However they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.

The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its aesthetics and its ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It's suitable for infants and can be made 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. It is essential to determine whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should also be free of stickers and transfers that could pose dangers to choking as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could be able to catch your child's clothes or prevent them from climbing out.

Check that the cot is assembled correctly, especially when it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots could have been painted with leaded paint, which could be toxic to babies. Newer models usually include a locking mechanism that ensures the cot can't fold or collapse while your child is inside.

The choice of the best mattress for your baby is important. It must be firm and snugly inserted into the cot, with no gaps on either side. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is waterproof to protect the fabric from injuries and extend its life.

It is best to choose a cot with an adjustable base height that allows you to lower the mattress as they increase in size. This will help prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling off of the bed, as well as decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base regularly, especially after your baby has started pulling themselves up and crawling in their sleep.

When your baby is outgrowing their crib or bassinet an cot bed is the next step in their development. Select a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure your baby is protected during the first six months. As they age and require more space, you might want to consider a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.

Style

For new parents, selecting the right Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby, but that is also stylish can be a challenge. With a bit of study, you can locate an cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The top crib beds offer different styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that is best suited to your baby's room as well as your style preferences.

There are many cots online cots that will suit any taste and budgets whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something else in between. Some cots come with extra features such as teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib, to help you keep your home tidy and neat!

Another crucial aspect to take into account is the length of use of your cot. You will want to move your child to an adult bed at the time they can stand up on their own typically at around the age of three. A cot that is transformed into a bed for toddlers is a good investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest setting.

Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four-poster cot design. These designs can add luxury and glamour to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high-ceilings. They can also be complemented by curtains or a canopy for added effect.

When it is time to choose your Baby Cot's bedding, you should always aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them regulate their temperature. It is also recommended to avoid using heavy blankets because they can pose a suffocation risk. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are comfortably fitting over the mattress, and ensure that there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. This will decrease the chance of tripping or snagging and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are great for families that are growing as they can easily transformed into a toddler or junior bed when the time comes. This can save parents the expense and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they move from infant to toddler.

The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, feature doors or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the chance of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This helps encourage the child's independence and encourages exploration.

Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions that can be adjusted to meet your baby's needs and developmental stages. The highest setting is used in the initial few months, then when your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to avoid them from falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit up unaided you can select the lowest base position that 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 design that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery cots decor. These cots are usually constructed of durable and strong wood that will stand the test of time. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cribs are more modern with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some even come with a baby changing top that makes it easier for you to change your baby. It will also save you the cost and space required to have a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.

Some cots are more innovative than that like the Pinette that has an elegant wooden frame that is ideal for hanging toys and can be the ideal secret den when surrounded by a sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its a unique extendable design that lets it grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.

Stores

Finding the right cot is a wise investment whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a cozy space for a beloved. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, and has flatpack features that allow you to piece it together at home. Some cot beds come with additional features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping that are suitable for babies and small children. Some models are constructed of wood or fabric that is lightweight and have a mattress that is simple while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots have to comply with strict UK safety standards.

Most cots 4 tots are reasonably priced, although the price may differ based on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. It's a bit on the expensive side, however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment as they let you use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby into an adult, and eventually a full size bed. You can find beds that transform from a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds tend to be larger than standard cribs. They may be more costly however they last longer.

Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how large the room is before you purchase one. Cots must be kept away from heat sources or direct sunlight and must be ventilated. Also, make sure the room is free of clutter and other dangers such as toys, blankets and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for any protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.