How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe and cozy place for your baby to rest. They can be dangerous, however should you fail to follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its design, ease of assembly, and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies and can be made into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is essential to ensure that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It must be free of any stickers, transfers and protrusions that could create dangerous choking.
Check that the cot is being properly assembled, particularly when it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted in leaded paint which is toxic for babies. Modern models have a locking mechanism that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is also important. It should be firm and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use cot for sale that is waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.
It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable height base that allows you to lower the mattress as your children grow. This will prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to check the height of the base on a regular basis particularly if your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up during sleep.
If your baby has outgrown their bassinet, or crib and is now ready for a cot-bed. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is secure during the first six months. As they get 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
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can find a cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The top crib beds have a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that is best suited to your baby's room as well as your personal style preferences.
There are many cots online that will suit any taste and budgets, whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something else in between. 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 aspect. It is recommended to move your child to a toddler bed when they are able to sit up unaided and sit up on their own, which is usually at around the age of three. For this reason, selecting a cot that will convert into a toddler bed can be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to its lowest setting.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are a popular choice for many new parents. These designs can add elegance and class to any room, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set for an additional dramatic effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding, you should always aim for breathable fabrics like bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will lessen the chance of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for families growing, as they can easily changed into a toddler or junior bed at the time of need. This will save parents money and also the stress of buying a new bed every time their child grows from infant to an adult.
The convertible cot design comes with customisable sides which can be fixed, have doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This promotes the child's independence and encourages exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's changing needs. As your baby grows you can lower the position to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will still allow him or her to climb into and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional look, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made with durable and sturdy wood which will endure the test of time. The slats of the cot are also tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they have been treated 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 have changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet to change your baby.
Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has an wooden frame with a cottage-like design which is perfect for hanging toys. It also makes a great secret den when covered by a sheet. It is also built to last, with a unique design that allows it to adapt to your child's needs and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Storage
Finding the right cot is a wise investment whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a baby friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that allow you to make use of it for a long time. Choose a model with flatpack features that allow you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more sturdy and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must meet strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.
While the price 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. It's a bit on the expensive side, but its sleek design and high-quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment as they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby to an adult, and eventually a full size bed. cot sales can find beds that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed, or even sofas. These beds are generally larger than traditional cots, and they may cost more, but they offer greater longevity.
Consider where you will place the cot, and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots must be kept away from any heat sources or direct sunlight and should be well-ventilated. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a used cot, make sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.