How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds are secure and comfortable place for your baby's sleep. However they can also be dangerous if you do not follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its beauty and its ease of assembly and quality construction. It's suitable from birth and can be converted into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether it is in compliance with current safety standards. It is important to check that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should also be free from stickers and transfers that could present the risk of choking and any protrusions from the top rail which could get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Verify that the cot is being assembled correctly, especially if it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots may have been painted with leaded paint, which could be poisonous to babies. Modern cots have an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
It is important to choose the right mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot, with no gaps on either side. You should also use a mattress protector with waterproof properties to protect the fabric from injuries and prolong its life.
A cot with an adjustable base height is an ideal choice, as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, and reduce the chance of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the base height regularly, especially after your baby is starting to pull themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.
If your baby has outgrown their bassinet, or crib, the next step is the purchase of a cot-bed. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they get older you may think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. With a little research, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your home decor. The most stylish cot beds come with different styles such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room and your style preferences.
If you're looking for something classic, modern or something in between There's a huge selection of cots online that can be adapted to all budgets and tastes. Some cots come with extra features such as teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.
Another thing to take into consideration is the duration of use of your cot. Once your child is able to stand without assistance, which is typically at around the age of three, you will want to move them to a toddler's bed. A cot that can be transformed into a toddler's bed is a good investment. You can buy the mattress separately and, when your child is ready to go to bed, you can lower the bed's base to the lowest setting.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster cot designs. These can add a touch elegance and luxury to any room and work particularly well in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add curtains or a canopy to the set for an additional striking effect.
It is recommended to choose breathable fabrics for your baby's crib like bamboo or cotton. This will be gentler on your baby's delicate skin and help to regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets that are heavy because they can pose the risk of suffocation. You should use fitted sheets that fit snugly over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the bed. This will lessen the chance of snagging and tripping, and improve the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be transformed easily into a junior or toddler bed for families growing. This can save parents the expense and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child when they move from infant to toddler.
The convertible cot design features sides that can be made to be static, feature doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage an attitude of independence and 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. The highest setting is recommended during the first few months, and as your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb into and out the cot safely.
For those who prefer traditional design can go for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time as they're made of strong and durable wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and are coated with non-toxic paints.
Some cots are more modern, with features such as built-in storage and rails for teething. Some cots have changing tables to make it easier to change your child. It will also save you the expense and space of having a separate cabinet for changing your baby at your home.
Some cots are even more creative than that like the Pinette which features a house design wooden frame that's perfect for hanging toys and can be 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 up to a 10-year-old junior bed.
Storage
The right cot for your child is a wise investment, whether you are furnishing a nursery or creating a child friendly space for a loved-one. Select a cot that has adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will let you use it for a long time. Find try this website with flatpack features that permit you to put it together yourself. Some cot-beds have extra features, such as drawers underneath the bed or removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Some models are constructed of wood or fabric that is lightweight and feature a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their type.
Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. It's expensive, but its sleek style and sturdy construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cots offer an excellent return on your initial investment, extending the use of your furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. You can pick from a variety of options that convert the crib into a toddler bed or even a couch. These beds are generally larger than standard cots, and they can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how large the room is before purchasing one. Cots need to be well ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you inspect the frame for any protrusions which could pose a risk to your child. If you are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for advice.