How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds provide a safe, comfortable and secure place for your child to sleep. However, they can be risky if you don't adhere to safety guidelines.

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

Safety

Cot Beds provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether the bed meets current safety standards. It is crucial to confirm that a second-hand cot or heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It must also be free of transfers and stickers that could present dangers to choking as well as any protrusions from the top rail that could get caught in your child's clothing or hinder them from climbing out.

Check that the cot is assembled correctly, especially if it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted with leaded paint, which can be toxic to babies. Newer models typically come with a locking mechanism to ensure that the cot can't collapse or fold down while your child is inside.

It is essential to choose the best mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and snugly inserted into the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend 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 stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, as well as reduce the chance 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 around in their sleep.

When your baby is no longer in their bassinet, or crib then the next step is the cot bed. Choose a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be the bed. This will ensure your baby is secure throughout the first six months. As they get older, you may want to consider the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Babymore has a range of cots that meet the highest safety standards.

Style

It can be a challenge for new parents to choose the best infant cribs Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a little investigation, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The best cots come in a variety of designs, such as solid fronts and sides with slats. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the space of your baby.

If you're looking to buy something traditional, modern or something in between There's a huge selection of cots online that can be adapted to every budget and taste. Some cots have additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers to keep things neat and tidy.

Another important factor to consider is the duration of use of your cot. You will want to move your child into a toddler bed when they are able to stand up on their own typically at the age of 3. A cot that is transformed into a bed for toddlers is a great investment. You can buy the correct mattress separately and when your child is ready to go on the bed base can be dropped down to its lowest level to ensure security.

Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four-poster cot design. These designs can add elegance and luxury to any room and are particularly effective in rooms with high-ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set for an even more dramatic effect.

When it comes to your baby's bedding it is best crib for newborn to opt for breathable fabrics like bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on your baby's delicate skin and help to regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can pose a risk of being suffocated. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are perfectly over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will lower the chance of snagging or tripping and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds can be converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and also the burden of purchasing a new bed as their child grows from baby to a toddler.

The convertible cot design comes with sides that can be made to be fixed, 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 have clear panels that permit your child to view their surroundings. This promotes independence and a feeling of exploration.

Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows, you can lower the setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up unaided you can choose the lowest base position which will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot in a safe manner.

Those looking for more of traditional design can go for a classic style that blends seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are generally made of durable and strong wood which will stand the test of time. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and are coated with non-toxic finishes.

Other cots are more modern and include features such as built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots come with changing tables to make it easier to change your child. This can also help you save the expense and space required to have a separate cabinet for changing your cheap baby cots for sale at your home.

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

Stores

Whether you're furnishing the nursery or creating a welcoming space for your loved one, finding the right cot bed is an important investment. Pick a cot that is adjustable mattress heights, teething rails and other features that will allow you to use it for a long time. Find a cot with flatpack features that permit you to put it together yourself. Some cot-beds have additional features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping that are suitable for small children and infants. Some models are constructed of fabrics or wood and come with a simple mattress, whereas others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of their type.

Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can vary based on the material and features. For example, the budget Westport cot made by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and comes with simple instructions and an Allen key. It's a little expensive, but its sleek design and high-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot beds are a fantastic investment since they permit you to use the furniture for many years as your child develops from a newborn to a toddler, and finally to a larger bed. You can choose from options that can convert the crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots and they are more expensive, but they offer greater longevity.

When buying a cot think about where you'll put it and how big the space is. Cots should be kept away from any direct sunlight or heaters and should be well-ventilated. Also, ensure that the area is clear of clutter and other hazards like toys, blankets and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, ensure that you inspect the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. Contact the manufacturer if you have any concerns.