Cot beds are a safe, comfortable and secure place for your child to sleep. However, they can be risky if you don't adhere to safety guidelines.
Our top choice is the Mamas & Papas Coxley crib that has received praise for its aesthetics and construction quality, as well as the ease of assembly. It is suitable for babies from the moment of birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed with an extension kit.Safety
Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether it is in compliance with the current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or heirloom cot, cots4Tots it is essential to ensure that it meets the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any labels, transfers and protrusions that could cause dangerous choking.
It's also worth checking that the cot is properly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or an old model. Older cots could have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to babies. Newer models typically have a built-in locking mechanism that ensures the cot doesn't collapse or fold while your child is inside.
It is essential to choose the best mattress for your child. It must be firm and fit snugly in the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover made of waterproof to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its life.
A cot with an adjustable base height is a great option, since it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling off of bed, as well as reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the height of the base on a regular basis particularly if your child begins to crawl and pull themselves up during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their crib or bassinet, the next step is a cot-bed. Choose a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be a bed. This will ensure that your baby is safe during the first six months. After that, you'll want to consider a single or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to choose a Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. However, with a little bit of research you can find the ideal crib for your baby, which will look stylish and match your decor. The top cots are available in various 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 traditional, modern or a mix of both There's a huge variety of cots available online that can be adapted to all tastes and budgets. Some cots even come with extra features like teething rails and under-bed drawers, to help you keep everything neat and tidy!
Another important factor to consider is the length of use of your cot. When your child is able to stand without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three, you will want to transition them into the bed of a toddler. A cot that is transformed into a bed for toddlers is a good investment. You can purchase the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to leave the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting for safety.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster design for their cot. These can add an element of elegance and class to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create a more striking effect.
When it is time to choose your baby's bedding, you should always aim for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. It will be gentle on baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can increase the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly fitting over the mattress, and make sure there aren't any gaps between the two sides of the bed. This will decrease the chance of tripping or getting caught and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are perfect for families growing, as they can be easily converted to a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can save parents money and also the stress of buying an entirely new bed each time their child grows from infant to a toddler.
The convertible cot design comes with customizable sides that can be fixed, have doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see the world around them. This promotes the child's independence and encourages exploration.
The majority of cot beds are adjustable to meet your baby's developmental needs. As your baby grows, you can lower the position to stop them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest base position that will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.
Those looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly 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 child and are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some even come with a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. This will also save you the cost and space of having a separate changer cabinet in your home.
Some cots have even more ingenious designs, like the Pinette one, which features wooden frames with a home-like style that is ideal for hanging toys. It also makes a great secret room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an exclusive design that allows it to expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Storage
The right cot for your child is a wise investment whether you are furnishing your nursery or creating a child comfortable space for your loved one. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will allow you to make use of it for a long time. Choose a model with flatpack features that allows you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds also come with extras, like drawers underneath the bed or movable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Some models are made from wood or fabric that is lightweight and have a mattress that is simple while others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their design.
While the price of a cot can vary in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. For instance the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side however its sleek design and quality construction make it an excellent investment.
Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they permit you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child develops from a newborn to an adult, and eventually into a bed of a large size. You can find beds that convert from a crib to an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots, and may cost more, but they provide longer-lasting use.
When purchasing a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of toys, clutter blankets, pillows, and other toys. If you're buying a secondhand cot, be sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions that could be a threat to your child. If you have any concerns you should contact the manufacturer for guidance.
