How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous, however should you fail to follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its design and ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It's suitable for infants and can be made into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether it complies with current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand or an heirloom cot has been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recent British standards. It must be free of any labels, transfers and protrusions that could create dangers to children from choking.
Verify that the cot has been assembled correctly, especially if it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Baby Cot Bed come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't fold or collapse when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is crucial. It must be firm, fit snugly into the cot, and have no gaps at either end. You should also consider using a mattress protector that is waterproof to protect the fabric from injuries and extend its life.
It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable base height, so you can lower the mattress as your children increase in size. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and will reduce their risk of SIDS. It's a good idea also to measure the height of the base on a regular basis especially if your child starts crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby is outgrowing 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 to be beds. This will ensure that your baby is secure throughout the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet the required safety standards.
Style
For parents who are new, deciding on the right Cot Bed that is not only safe for your baby but that also looks stylish is a daunting task. But with a little research you can find the perfect crib for your baby, which will look stylish and match your home decor. The most stylish crib beds offer a range of styling options 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.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or something in between There's a huge variety of cots available online that will suit all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features such as teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things neat and tidy.
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the duration of use of your cot. As soon as your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically around the age three and up, you should change them into the bed of a toddler. A cot that is converted into a toddler's bed is a fantastic investment. You'll be able to buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to move on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest setting to ensure safety.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are popular choices for new parents. These can add a touch elegance and class to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with curtains or a canopy for a more dramatic effect.
You should always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bed like bamboo or cotton. It is more gentle on your baby's delicate skin and will help regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that fit snugly over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps either side of the bed. This will lessen the chance of snagging and tripping, and also increase the security of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for families that are growing as they can easily converted to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they grow from baby to toddler.
The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be static, have doors or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to decrease the risk of entrapment, and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see their surroundings. infant cot bed encourages the child's independence and encourages exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental needs. As your baby grows you can lower the position to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will still allow your child to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a traditional look the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time as they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and are coated with non-toxic paints.
Other cots are a little more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not needing to buy an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has a wooden frame with a house-like design that is perfect to hang toys. It also makes a great secret den when covered by sheets. It's built to last, with a a unique extendable design that can grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Storage
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a welcoming space for a loved one, choosing the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that let you use it for many years. Find a cot with flatpack features that allow you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for infants and young children. Some models are made from wood or fabric that is lightweight and have a mattress that is simple while others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. Regardless of the type, all cots must to meet strict UK safety standards.
The majority of cots are affordable although the price may vary based on the material and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's a little expensive, however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment since they allow you to use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby into a toddler, and then into a bed of a large size. You can pick from a variety of options that can convert cribs into toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than the traditional cribs. They may be more costly, but they last longer.
When purchasing a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, make sure the space is free of any clutter and other dangers like toys, blankets and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for protrusions which could be a hazard to your child. If you have any concerns, contact the manufacturer for guidance.