How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds provide an incredibly comfortable, safe and secure environment for your child to rest. They can be dangerous, however should you fail to adhere to safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its beauty and its ease of assembly and its high-quality construction. It's suitable from birth and can be transformed into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and comfortable environment for your baby. The most important consideration is whether the bed meets current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or an heirloom cot, it is essential to ensure it complies with the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any labels, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangerous choking.
Check that the cot is being assembled correctly, especially if it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots could have been painted in leaded paint, which is harmful to babies. Modern models have a locking mechanism that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is also important. It must be firm and snugly fit into the cot, and have no gaps at either end. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector with waterproof properties to shield the fabric from injuries and extend its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is a great choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling out of the bed, while also decreasing the risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the height of the base frequently, especially after your baby has started pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
After your baby has outgrown their bassinet or crib, it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their growth. Choosing one that confirms to the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. After that, you'll want to consider a single or bunk bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. With a bit of study, you can locate an cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The top cots are available in a variety of styles, including solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can pick one that complements your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something modern, traditional or somewhere in between, there are a wide variety of cots available online that will suit all tastes and budgets. Some cots are equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
Another important factor to consider is the length of time you will use of your cot. You will want to move your child to a toddler bed as soon as they are able to sit up without assistance typically at around the age of three. A cot that can be converted into a toddler's bed is a fantastic investment. You can purchase the mattress separately and, when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest level.
Many parents also pick the sleigh or four-poster design for their cot. They can provide an element of elegance and class to any nursery, and work best in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for a more striking effect.
Always choose breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets because they can pose an obstructing risk. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly to the mattress and ensure there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the bed. This will lessen the chance of snagging and tripping, and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for growing families as they can easily transformed into a toddler or junior bed at the time of need. This can help parents save money and avoid the stress of buying a new bed as their child grows from baby to a toddler.
The design of the convertible cot allows the possibility of customizing. It can include sides that are stationary, with doors or that fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to decrease the chance of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. They also come with clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings, which can help foster independence and a sense of exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted base positions to accommodate your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the settings to prevent them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can choose the lowest position for base which will allow them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you prefer a more traditional look, a classic style can be incorporated into any nursery decor. The cots are typically made with durable and sturdy wood that can stand the test of time. The slats of the cot are also carefully spaced for your child's safety. They have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and come with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. This can also help you save the cost and space required to have a separate changer cabinet in your home.
Some cots are more innovative than that, such as the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design which is perfect to hang toys from and is the ideal secret den when surrounded by a sheet. It's built to last, with a unique design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Stores
Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're decorating a nursery or creating a cozy space for a beloved. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to use it for many years. 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 extra features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping for infants and small children. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of the kind.
Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. It's a little on the pricey side but its sleek style and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment since they permit you to use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a newborn to an adult, and eventually to a larger bed. You can find options that can be converted from a crib to a toddler bed, or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots. They can be more expensive however they last longer.
When purchasing a cot, think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. browse around here should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Also, make sure the room is free of clutter and other hazards like blankets, toys and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for protrusions that could be a hazard to your child. If you have concerns ask the manufacturer assistance.