How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide the safety, comfort and secure space for your child to rest. 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 beauty and ease of assembly and quality construction. It is suitable for babies and can be made to a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is important to check if it meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been thoroughly cleaned and www.cots4tots.co.uk meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of stickers and transfers that could present the risk of choking as well as any protrusions from the top rail that could catch your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
Check that the cot is being properly assembled, particularly when it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to babies. Modern cots usually come with a locking mechanism that ensures the cot can't fold or collapse when your child is in.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also crucial. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a waterproof mattress cover to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its life.
It is best to choose a cot that has an adjustable base height, so you can lower the mattress as they expand. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, and will reduce the risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base on a regular basis, especially if your baby begins to crawl and pull themselves up during sleep.
Once your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their development. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure that they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they grow older and require more space, you might be considering a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a little study, you can locate a cot that looks fashionable and complements your decor. The top cot beds come with various styles such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts and backs, so you can pick the one that best suits the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.
Whether you're looking for something modern, traditional or a mix of both There's a huge range of cots on the market that will suit all tastes and budgets. Some cots are even equipped with extra features like teething rails and drawers under the bed to help keep your home tidy and neat!
The length of time that your cot will be used is an important aspect. As soon as your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically around the age three, you will want to move them to the bed of a toddler. A cot that can be transformed into a bed for toddlers is a great investment. You can buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to move on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest setting for safety.
The sleigh and four-poster cot designs are also popular with new parents. They can bring an element of elegance and class to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create a more dramatic effect.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding it is best to opt for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the danger of being suffocated. You should use fitted sheets which fit snugly over the mattress. Make sure 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 can be converted easily into a junior or toddler bed for families growing. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child when they grow from baby to toddler.
The design of the convertible cot allows for customisation. It can have sides that are stationary, with doors or that fold down for easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings, fostering independence and a sense of exploration.
Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to stop 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 allow him or her to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a traditional look the classic style will fit in with any nursery decor. These cots are usually constructed from sturdy and durable wood that can endure the test of time. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. They have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy an additional cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots have even more ingenious designs, like the Pinette that has an wooden frame with a home-like style which is perfect to hang toys. It also makes a great secret room when covered with sheets. It's also built to last thanks to its an innovative design that can expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
Finding the right cot is a wise investment, whether you are furnishing the nursery or creating a friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that can be used for a long time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features allowing you to put it together at home. Some cot-beds come with additional features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for infants and small children. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more robust, and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet the strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their kind.
The majority of cots are affordable although the price may differ based on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's a bit on the expensive side, however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot beds offer a great return on your initial investment, extending the use of the furniture as your baby develops into a toddler and eventually, a full-sized bed. There are a variety of options that transform a crib into a toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots, and can be more expensive however they are more durable.
Consider where you will place the cot and how big the room is before you purchase one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, make sure the room is free of clutter and other hazards such as toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.