How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are safe and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However, they can be risky if you don't adhere to safety guidelines.
Our top pick is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib, which earned praise for its aesthetics, quality construction and the ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the moment of birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and secure environment for your baby. It is important to check if it meets current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is vital to ensure it complies with the most recent British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any stickers, transfers and protrusions that could pose dangerous choking.
Make sure the cot has been assembled correctly, especially in the case of an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots may have been painted with lead paint, which could be toxic to babies. Modern cots come with an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding while your child is inside.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is crucial. It should be sturdy and fit snugly in the cot, without gaps on either side. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from injuries and prolong its life.
A cot that has an adjustable base height is a good choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to check the height of the base on a regular basis, especially if your baby begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet and is now ready for the cot bed. 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 place to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they age and require more space, you might be considering a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet the required safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select the best Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a bit of study, you can locate a cot that looks stylish and fits your decor. The top crib beds have various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts which means you can pick the one that best suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.
There are plenty of cots on the market to suit all tastes and budgets whether you're looking for traditional, modern or something else in between. Some cots are equipped with additional features such as teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
The length of time that your cot will be used is another important aspect. Once your child can stand up without assistance, which is typically around the age three and up, you should move them to a toddler's bed. Therefore, opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed may be a good investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest setting.
Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four-poster cot design. They can bring a touch of glamour and luxury to any nursery and are particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set to create an additional dramatic effect.
When it comes to your baby's bedding it is best to opt for fabrics that are breathable, such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the risk of inhaling suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are securely fit over the mattress and ensure there are no gaps between the two sides of the bed. This will decrease the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, as they can easily converted into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This will save parents money and also the hassle of having to buy a new bed as their child develops from a baby to a toddler.
The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, feature doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some also have clear panel options which let your child see their surroundings, which can help foster the sense of independence and exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental requirements. The highest setting is recommended during the first few months, but when your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up unaided you can use the lowest base position that will allow them to climb in and out of the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional style the classic style will fit in with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made from sturdy and durable wood which will endure the test of time. The slats of the cot are also tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features like built-in storage and rails for teething. Some even come with a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. You can also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
cots to tots are even more innovative than that, such as the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and is the ideal secret den when it's covered with a bed sheet. It's also built to last, with an innovative design that allows it to expand with your child and can accommodate 10 years old junior beds.
Stores
Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for a loved one, selecting the best crib bed is a crucial investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will let you use it for many years. Choose a model with flatpack features that allow you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds come with extra features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for infants and small children. Some models are made from lightweight fabrics or wood with simple mattresses. Others are more substantial, and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of the kind.
Most cots are affordable, although the price may differ based on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to construct and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment as they permit you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child develops from a baby to a toddler, and finally to a larger bed. There are a variety of options that can convert a crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds tend to be larger than traditional cots. They can be more expensive, but they last longer.
Think about where you'll put the cot, and how big the room is before you purchase one. Cots should be kept away from heating sources or direct sunlight and should be well-ventilated. Also, make sure the area is clear of clutter and other hazards such as toys, blankets and pillows. Also, if you're buying a second-hand crib, inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.