How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are a safe, comfortable and secure space for your child to rest. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not adhere to safety rules.
The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its design and its ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies and can be made into a toddler bed by the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds offer a safe and secure environment for your baby. The most important consideration is whether the cot meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand or heirloom cot been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of stickers and transfers which could create the risk of choking and any protrusions on the top rail which could catch your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.
Check that the cot has been properly assembled, particularly if it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which is poisonous to babies. Newer models typically have a built-in locking mechanism to ensure that the cot doesn't collapse or fold when your child is in.
It is essential to choose the best mattress for your child. It should be sturdy, fit snugly into the cot, and have no gaps at either end. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.
It is best to choose a cot that has an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as your children expand. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base frequently, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their bassinet, or crib and is now ready for a cot-bed. Select a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is safe during the first six months. After that, you'll want to consider a bunk or single bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for parents with young children to select the best Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a bit of research, you can locate the perfect crib for your baby that looks stylish and fit your home decor. The top cot beds come with a range of styling options, including slatted sides and solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room and your personal style preferences.
If you're looking to buy something classic, modern or a mix of both There's a wide variety of cots available online that will suit every budget and taste. Some cots even come with additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers to help keep everything neat and tidy!
The length of time that your cot will be used is an important aspect. Cots For Tots is recommended to move your child to a toddler bed at the time they can stand up on their own typically around the age of three. Therefore, choosing a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a great investment. You can buy the mattress separately, and when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.
The sleigh and four-poster crib designs are also a popular choice for many new parents. They can provide an element of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and work best in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
When it comes to your baby's bedding You should aim for fabrics that are breathable, such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets as they could pose a danger of being suffocated. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are securely fitting over the mattress, and ensure there are no gaps 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 can be transformed easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and also the burden of purchasing 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. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment, and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. Some also have clear panels that allow your child to view their surroundings, which can help foster the sense of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to accommodate your baby's development needs. As your baby grows you can lower the position to keep them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will allow them to climb into and out of the cot without injury.
If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style will fit in with any nursery decor. The 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 they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features like built-in storage and teething rails. Some even come with a baby changing top that makes it easier to change your baby. This will also save you the cost and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots have even more innovative designs, such as the Pinette one, which features wooden frames with a house-like design that is ideal for hanging toys. It can also be a great hidden bedroom when it is covered with a sheet. It's built to last, with a a unique extendable design that lets it expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10-year old junior bed.
Storage
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your child, choosing the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long period of time, adapting to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and teething rails. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features that allow you to piece it together at home. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots are required to be in compliance with strict UK safety standards.
Most cots are affordable, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. For example the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. Although it's expensive but its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot beds provide the best return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of the furniture as your tot grows into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. There are a variety of options that transform cribs into toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than standard cots, and they may cost more, however they are more durable.
When buying a cot think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, ensure that the space is free of clutter and other hazards like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, ensure that you inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.