How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are a safe and comfortable place for your baby to rest. However, they can be risky if you don't adhere to the safety guidelines.

The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty and ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be made into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds provide a safe and comfortable environment for your child. It is important to check whether the cot is safe and meets current safety standards. If you are considering an heirloom or second-hand cot, it is essential to make sure it is in line with the latest 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 is being put together correctly, particularly in the case of a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to babies. Modern cots have a locking mechanism that stops the crib from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.

It is crucial to select the right mattress for your child. It should be firm and fit snugly in the cot with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its life.

A cot with an adjustable base height is an ideal choice, as it allows 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 risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the height of the base frequently, especially after your baby is starting to pull themselves up and crawling around during sleep.

After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet, a cot bed is the next step in their development. Choose a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure that your baby is safe throughout the first six months. As they age and require more space, you might want to consider a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all the necessary safety standards.

Style

It can be a challenge for new parents to choose the best cots uk Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. If you do a little study, you can locate an cot that is elegant and matches your home decor. The top crib beds offer a range of styling options, including slatted sides and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that suits your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.

If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or a mix of both, there are a wide selection of cots online that can be adapted to every budget and taste. Some cots even come with additional features, such as teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib to help you keep your home tidy and neat!

The length of time that your cot will be used is another important factor. As soon as your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is usually around the age three and up, you should move them to the bed of a toddler. A cot sale that is converted into a toddler's bed is a good investment. You can purchase the mattress separately, and when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to its lowest level.

The sleigh and four poster crib sets designs are also a popular choice for many new parents. They can provide an element of luxury and glamour to any nursery and work best in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains for a more dramatic effect.

Always choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. It is also recommended to avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create an obstructing risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are comfortably fitting over the mattress, and make sure there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are great for families growing, as they can easily changed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents the cost and hassle of buying an entirely new bed for their child when they move from toddler to baby.

The design of the convertible cot allows the possibility of customizing. It can include sides that are static with doors or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment, and create a safe sleep environment for your child. There are also clear panels that let your child see their surroundings, fostering the sense of independence and exploration.

The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental needs. The highest setting is used during the first few months, and as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can select the lowest position for base which allows them to climb in and out of the cot safely.

For those who prefer traditional style can opt 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 of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. They are treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cribs beds are more modern with features like built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some even have a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase an additional cabinet for changing your baby.

Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette that has wooden frames with a house-like design which is perfect for hanging toys. It can also be a great hidden den when covered by sheets. It's also built to last thanks to its an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.

Storage

Finding the right cot is a wise investment whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a child comfortable space for your loved one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long period of time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Find a cot that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features allowing you to put it together at home. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.

Cots are light, portable sleeping frames designed for children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight fabrics or wood with simple mattresses. Others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots are required to meet strict UK safety standards.

Most cots are reasonably priced, although the price may vary based on the material and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. It's on the expensive side, but its sleek style and sturdy construction make it an excellent investment.

Convertible cots offer an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of your furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. There are options that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed, or even a sofa. These beds tend to be larger than standard cribs. They are more costly, but they last longer.

When buying a cot take into consideration where it will be placed and how big the space is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and toys. Also, if you're buying a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.