How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds provide the safety, comfort and secure environment for your child to rest. They can be dangerous, however should you fail to follow safety guidelines.

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

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers which could create the risk of choking, as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.

Make sure the cot is assembled correctly, especially in the case of an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which is harmful to infants. Modern cots have an integrated locking mechanism which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.

Selecting the right mattress for your baby is important. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and extend its life.

It is recommended to select a cot with an adjustable height base which allows you to lower the mattress as your children increase in size. This will help prevent them from getting out of the sale cot and falling out of the bed, as well as decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the base height regularly particularly after your child has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.

When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet, the next step is a cot-bed. Select 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 that your baby is protected throughout the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a bunk or single bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that are compliant with all safety standards.

Style

It can be difficult for parents with young children to select the right Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect cot for your baby, which will look stylish and match your home decor. The best cots come in different designs, such as solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the space of your baby.

If you're looking to buy something modern, traditional or a mix of both There's a wide selection of cots online that can be adapted to every budget and taste. Some cots are equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers underneath the bed to keep things tidy and neat.

The length of time your cot will be used is another important aspect. It is recommended to move your child into an adult bed at the time they are able to sit up without assistance, which usually happens at the age of 3. A cot that is converted into a toddler's bed is a great investment. You'll be able to buy the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to leave 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. These can provide an element of elegance and class to any nursery, and work best crib in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by curtains or a canopy to add a touch of elegance.

When it comes to your baby's bedding it is best cot newborn to opt for breathable fabrics like bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using blankets with heavy weights, as these could pose the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that fit perfectly over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will decrease the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds can be converted easily into a junior or toddler bed for growing families. This can help parents save money and avoid the stress of buying an entirely new bed each time their child grows from infant to an adult.

The design of the convertible cot provides for customisation. It can have sides that are static with doors or fold down to allow easy access. They are designed to minimize the chance of entrapment and create a safe sleep environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see the world around them. This promotes independence and a feeling of exploration.

The majority of cot beds can be adjusted base positions to accommodate your baby's developmental needs and needs. As your baby grows, you can lower the settings to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up unaided you can select the lowest base position which allows them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.

If you're looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots will last a lifetime because they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your little one and are coated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots are more modern, with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some cots come with changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet to change your baby.

Some cots come with creative designs, like the Pinette that has an wooden frame with a home-like style that is ideal to hang toys. It can also be a great hidden room when covered with sheets. It's also built to last with unique design that lets it expand with your child and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.

Storage

Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're decorating the nursery or creating a child cozy space for a beloved. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will let you use it for a long time. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features allowing you to piece it together at home. Some cot beds are also equipped with extras, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.

Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames designed for children and infants. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more sturdy 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 varies in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot made by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. Although it's more expensive than the average but its sleek design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot-beds can be a good investment since they let you use the furniture for many years as your child grows from a Baby Crib to a toddler, and finally a full size bed. You can pick from a variety of options that convert a crib into a toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots, and they are more expensive, but they offer greater longevity.

When you are buying a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the room is. Cots must be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, make sure the room is free of any clutter and other dangers like toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions which could be a hazard to your child. If you have concerns ask the manufacturer advice.