How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are safe and cozy place for your baby 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 pick. It has been praised for its design and ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies from birth, and can be made into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.

Safety

cot sets Beds are designed to provide a place that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is essential to determine whether the cot is safe and meets the current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or heirloom cot, it is essential to ensure that it meets the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should be free of stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could pose choking hazards.

It's also important to ensure that the cot is correctly assembled, particularly if it's a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which is poisonous to babies. Modern cots come with an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.

The choice of the best mattress for your baby is crucial. It should be sturdy and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps on either end. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.

It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable base height, so you can lower the mattress as they expand. This will help prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the base height regularly, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling around during sleep.

When your Baby Cot Bed is outgrowing their crib or bassinet a cot bed is the next step in their growth. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. After that, you'll want to consider a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore has a range of cots that meet all safety standards.

Style

For new parents, choosing the right Cot Bed that's secure for your baby but that also looks stylish is a daunting task. With a bit of research, you can find an cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The top cots are available in various designs, such as solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can choose one that complements your style and the room of your baby.

There are plenty of cots on the market to fit all tastes and budgets regardless of whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something in between. Some cots come with extra features like teething rails or drawers under the bed to keep things tidy and neat.

Another crucial aspect to take into account is the length of use of your cot. Once your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is usually around the age of three and up, you should move them to a toddler's bed. This is why opting for a cot bed sales that will convert into a toddler bed can be a wise investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed's base to the lowest setting.

Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster cot designs. They can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any space and work particularly well in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create an additional dramatic effect.

Always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's crib, such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets, as these could pose the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly to the mattress and ensure there are no gaps either side of the mattress. This will lower the chance of snagging or tripping and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are great for families that are growing because they can be easily converted into a toddler or junior bed when the time comes. This will help parents save money and avoid the stress of buying a new bed every time their child develops from a baby to a toddler.

The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be static, have doors or fold down to make it easy to access. These are designed to minimise the risk of entrapment, and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some also have clear panel options which allow your child to view their surroundings, which can help foster independence and an appreciation for exploration.

The majority of cot beds can be adjusted 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 keep them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will allow your child to climb into and out the cot without injury.

Those looking for more of traditional style can opt for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots will last a lifetime because they're made from strong and durable wood. The slats of the cot are carefully spaced for your child's safety and they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots are more modern and have features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. You can also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.

Some cots come with innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has a wooden frame with a home-like style that is ideal to hang toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with a sheet. It's built to last, with a unique design that lets it grow with your child and can accommodate a 10-year-old junior bed.

Stores

Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you are furnishing your nursery or creating a friendly space for a loved-one. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to use it for a long time. Look for a design that's easy to put together, with flatpack features that let you make it yourself at home. Some cot-beds come with additional features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable frames that are designed for infants and young children. Some models are made of a lightweight wood or fabric and have a mattress that is simple, whereas others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must be in compliance with strict UK safety standards, regardless of their kind.

While the cost of a cot can vary depending on materials and extra features, they are generally within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow instructions as well as an Allen key. Although it's a bit on the expensive side, its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment as they let you make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child grows from a newborn to an adult, and eventually a full size bed. You can choose from options that convert cribs into toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds tend to be larger than the traditional cribs. They are more costly however, they last longer.

When you are buying a cot, think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. Cots should be placed away from heating sources or direct sunlight and should be well-ventilated. Also, ensure that the space is free of clutter and other hazards such as toys, blankets and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.