How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are safe and cozy place for your baby's sleep. They can be dangerous, however should you fail to adhere to safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib that received high marks for its design, quality construction and ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the moment of birth and can be made into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and comfortable environment for your child. It is essential to determine whether the cot is safe and meets the current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of stickers and transfers which could create a choking hazard as well as any protrusions from the top rail that might get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
It's also important to ensure that the cot is correctly assembled, particularly in the case of a hand-me-down or an older model. Older cots could have been painted with leaded paint, which is poisonous to babies. Modern models have an integrated locking mechanism which prevents the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
The choice of the best mattress for your baby is crucial. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot, and have no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is an ideal choice, as it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling out of bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the base height regularly particularly after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
After your baby has outgrown their bassinet or crib, a cot bed is the next step in their growth. Select a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be beds. This will ensure your baby is protected during the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
For parents who are new, deciding on a Cot Bed that's not only safe for your baby but that also looks stylish can be a challenge. With Cots For Tots UK of study, you can locate a cot that is elegant and matches your home decor. The best 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 suits the room of your baby and your style preferences.
There are a variety of cots available online that will suit any taste and budgets, whether you're seeking a traditional, modern or something else in between. Some cots have additional features, such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important aspect. Once your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is usually around the age three, you will want to transition them into the bed of a toddler. This is why opting for a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed could be a good investment. You can purchase the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to leave, the base of the bed can be lowered down to its lowest setting for safety.
Many parents also pick the sleigh or four-poster design for their cot. They can bring the look of luxury and glamour to any nursery and work best in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create an even more dramatic effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding You should aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights, as these could pose a suffocation risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will decrease 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 converted into a toddler or junior bed at the time of need. This can help parents save money and avoid the hassle of having to buy an entirely new bed each time their child grows from a infant to an adult.
The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be fixed, have doors or fold down for easy access. They are designed to decrease the risk of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage an attitude of independence and exploration.
Most cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental requirements. The highest position is typically used for the first few months, but as your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to stop them from falling out of the cot. Once your child can sit up unaided you can choose the lowest base position that will allow them to climb into and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional look, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots will last for a long time because they are made of robust and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic paints.
Other cots are more modern and have features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing top that makes it easier to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet to change your baby.
Some cots are even more creative than that and include the Pinette that has an elegant wooden frame which is perfect for hanging toys and is the ideal secret den when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that lets it grow with your child and accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Storage
Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're decorating a nursery or creating a child friendly space for a loved-one. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will allow you to make use of it for a long time. Choose a model with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds have additional features, like drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping designed specifically for children and infants. Some models are made of light fabrics or wood with a simple mattress. Others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots have to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
While the price of a cot can vary according to the materials used and additional features, most are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to construct and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. Although it's on the expensive side, its sleek design and high-end construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they let you make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child develops from a newborn to an adult, and eventually a full size bed. There are options that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed, or even sofas. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots and can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.
Consider where you will place the cot and how large the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots must be kept away from any direct sunlight or heaters, and they should be well-ventilated. Also, make sure the area is clear of any clutter and other dangers such as toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any questions.