How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However they can be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.

The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty and its ease of assembly and quality construction. It is suitable for babies from birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is essential to determine whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or an heirloom crib sets, it is crucial to ensure it complies with the most current British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could cause choking hazards.

It's also worth checking that the cot is assembled, especially if it's a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which could be poisonous to babies. Newer models usually come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot doesn't collapse or fold down when your child is in.

Choosing the right mattress for your baby is important. It must be firm and snugly inserted into the cot, without gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover made of waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its life.

It is best cots to choose a cot with an adjustable base height, so you can lower the mattress as your children increase in size. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, and will reduce the chance of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base regularly especially after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling during sleep.

After your baby has outgrown their crib or bassinet it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their growth. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their lives. After that, you'll want to consider a bunk or single bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.

Style

For new parents, choosing the right Cot Bed that's safe for your baby but that also looks great can be a challenge. With a little study, you can locate a cot sets that looks stylish and fits your home decor. The top cots are available in different styles, including solid fronts and sides with slats. You can choose one that matches your style and the space of your baby.

There are many cots online to suit all tastes and budgets, whether you're seeking a traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots even come with additional features, such as teething rails, under-bed drawers, and even a crib to help keep everything neat and tidy!

The amount of time your cot will be used is another important factor. As soon as your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is typically around the age three it is time to move them to the bed of a toddler. Therefore, selecting an cot that converts into a toddler bed could be a great investment. You'll be able to buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to move on, the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting to ensure safety.

Many parents also pick the sleigh or four poster design for their cot. These can bring a touch of luxury and glamour 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.

Always select breathable bedding for your baby's bed such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on your baby's delicate skin and will help regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they could pose a danger of inhaling suffocation. Use fitted sheets that are comfortably over the mattress. Be sure that there are no gaps on either side of the mattress. This will reduce the risk of tripping or snagging and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are ideal for families growing, as they can easily transformed to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents the expense and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child when they grow from toddler to baby.

The design of the convertible cot permits the user to customize. It can have sides that are stationary with doors or fold down for easy access. They are designed to minimize the chance of entrapment and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see the world around them. This encourages the child's independence and encourages exploration.

Most cot beds have adjustable base positions that can be adjusted to meet your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows you can lower the position to prevent them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb into and out the cot in a safe manner.

If you prefer a traditional look traditional style, a classic design can be incorporated into any nursery decor. The cots are typically made from sturdy and durable wood that can stand the test of time. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cribs are more modern with features like built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. This can also help you save the cost and space required to have a separate changer cabinet in your home.

Some cots come with creative designs, like the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a cottage-like design that is ideal to hang toys. It also makes a great secret bedroom when it is 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.

Storage

The right best cot bed for your child is a wise 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 many years. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, and has flatpack features allowing you to piece it together at home. Some cot-beds have additional features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.

Cots are light, portable frames that are designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made from wood or fabric that is lightweight and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. Whatever the model, all cots have to comply with strict UK safety standards.

While the price of a cot may vary depending on materials and extra features, most are within budget. For example, 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 bit expensive, however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cot beds provide an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of your furniture as your child develops into a toddler and eventually, a full-sized bed. You can pick from a variety of options that convert the crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds tend to be larger than standard cots. They can be more costly, but they last longer.

Consider where you will place the cot, and how big the room is before you purchase one. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Make sure that the area is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you check the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any questions.