How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are a safe and cozy place for your baby's sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety guidelines.

The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for cots4Tots its design and its ease of assembly and quality construction. It is suitable from the moment of birth and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is important to check that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and is in compliance with the most recent British standards. It should also be free from stickers and transfers which could create dangers to choking as well as any protrusions on the top rail that could be able to catch your child's clothes or prevent them from climbing out.

It's also worth checking that the cot is correctly assembled, particularly in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted with leaded paint, which could be toxic to babies. Modern cots usually come with a locking mechanism that ensures the cot doesn't collapse or fold down while your child is inside.

It is important to choose the right mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover made of waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its life.

It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable height base, so you can lower the mattress as they grow. This will stop them from climbing out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also reducing the risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the height of the base regularly particularly after your child is starting to pull themselves up and crawling during sleep.

When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet and is now ready for a cot-bed. Selecting one that complies 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 life. After that, you'll want to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.

Style

It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed which is both safe and fashionable. However, with a little bit of research you can locate the perfect crib for your baby that looks stylish and fit your home decor. The top cot beds come with different styles, including slatted sides and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that is best suited to the room of your baby and your personal style preferences.

If you're looking for something modern, traditional or somewhere in between There's a wide variety of cots available online that will suit every budget and taste. Some cots even come with extra features like teething rails and drawers under the bed, to help you keep your home tidy and neat!

The length of time your cot will be used is another important factor. You will want to move your child to an adult bed when they can sit up unaided typically at around the age of three. A cot that can be transformed into a bed for toddlers is a great investment. You can purchase the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to leave the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest setting to ensure security.

Many parents also choose the sleigh or four-poster design for their cot. They can bring the look of elegance and class to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by curtains or a canopy for a more dramatic effect.

When it is time to choose your baby's bedding, you should always aim for soft fabrics such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using blankets that are heavy as they can increase the risk of suffocation. Use fitted sheets which fit snugly over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will reduce the chance of snagging and tripping, and also increase the security of your child's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are ideal for families that are growing because they can be easily transformed into a toddler or junior bed when the time comes. This will save parents the expense and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they transition from infant to toddler.

The convertible cot design has customisable sides which can be static, have doors, or fold down for easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. Some also have clear panel options which allow your child to see their surroundings, fostering independence and a sense of exploration.

Most cot beds have adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. The highest setting is recommended during the first few months, but as your baby grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will allow him or her to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.

If you prefer a traditional look, a classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots will last for a long time as they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots are more modern and have features such as built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even have a baby changing table to make it easier for you to change your baby. This can also help you save the cost and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.

Some cots are more creative than that, such as the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design that is ideal for hanging toys and can be the ideal secret den when it's covered with a bed sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an innovative design that can grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.

Stores

The right cot for your child is a wise investment, whether you're furnishing your nursery or creating a baby cozy space for a beloved. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long period of time, adapting to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and teething rails. Choose a model that is easy to assemble, and has flatpack features allowing you to put it together at home. Some cot beds also come with additional features, such as drawers under the bed or movable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable frames that are designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots are required to comply with strict UK safety standards.

Most cots are affordable, however, the cost can vary based on the material and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. Although it's a bit on the expensive side, its sleek design and quality construction make this a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot-beds are a great investment because they allow you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child grows from a newborn to a toddler, and finally to a larger bed. You can find beds that convert from a crib to a toddler bed, or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots and they may cost more, but they provide longer-lasting use.

When buying 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. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, make sure to examine the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. If you have any concerns ask the manufacturer assistance.