Are Cot Bed The Greatest Thing There Ever Was?
How to Choose a Cot Bed
Cot beds offer a safe, comfortable and secure environment for your child to rest. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety rules.
Our top choice is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which earned high marks for its beauty, quality construction and the ease of assembly. It's suitable for infants and can be transformed into a toddler bed by the purchase of 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 current safety standards. If you are considering a second-hand or heirloom crib, it is vital to ensure that it meets the most current British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must be free of any stickers, transfers, and protrusions that could create dangers to children from choking.
Check that the cot is properly assembled, particularly in the case of a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots could have been sprayed with lead paint, which is harmful to babies. Newer models usually include a locking mechanism that ensures the cot can't fold or collapse while your child is inside.
Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also important. It should be sturdy and snugly fit into the cot, without gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and prolong its life.
A cot with an adjustable base height is a great option, since it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling out of the bed, and will reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base regularly, especially after your baby is starting to pull themselves up and crawling around during sleep.
When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet then the next step is the cot bed. Pick a bed or cot that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a cot, and BS8509 for beds. This will ensure that your baby is safe during the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a single or bunk bed when they reach their toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cots that meet all the necessary safety standards.
Style
It can be difficult for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed which is both safe and stylish. If you do a little study, you can locate an cot that is elegant and matches your decor. The top cots are available in various styles, including solid fronts and side panels that are slatted. You can choose one that is in line with your style and the room of your baby.
If you're looking to buy something traditional, modern or somewhere in between There's a huge selection of cots online that can be adapted to all budgets and tastes. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or under-bed drawers to keep things tidy and neat.
Another crucial aspect to take into account is the length of use of your cot. When your child is able to stand up without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three it is time to move them to the bed of a toddler. Therefore, opting for a cot that will convert into a toddler bed could be a great investment. You can buy the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready to sleep, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest setting.
Many parents also choose the sleigh or four poster design for their cot. They can bring the look of glamour and luxury to any nursery, and work best in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented with a canopy or curtains to add a touch of elegance.
Always select breathable bedding for your baby's bedding, such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on baby's skin and help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets with heavy weights that are too heavy, as they could create the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly to the mattress and make sure there aren't any gaps on between the two sides of the bed. This will decrease the risk of tripping or snagging and increase the safety of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are ideal for growing families as they can be easily converted into a junior or toddler bed when the time comes. This will save parents the expense and hassle of buying an entirely new bed for their child as they transition from toddler to baby.
The design of the convertible cot provides for customisation. infant cot bed can include sides that are stationary and have doors, or fold down to allow easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and ensure a safe sleep environment for your child. They also come with clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings, which can help foster independence and an appreciation for exploration.
Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's developmental needs and needs. The highest setting is used in the initial few months, but when 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 sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will allow your child to climb into and out the cot safely.
If you prefer a more traditional look traditional style, a classic design can be incorporated into any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time because they're made of durable and sturdy wood. The slats of the cot are also closely spaced for your child's safety. They are treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cribs are more modern with features like built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some cots have changing tables to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.
Some cots are even more innovative than that, such as the Pinette that has a wooden frame with a house design that's perfect for hanging toys and can be the ideal place to sleep in when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an exclusive design that can grow with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a baby-friendly space for your child, choosing the right cot bed is an important investment. Choose a cot that can be used for a long period of time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Find a cot with flatpack features that allows you to put it together yourself. Some cot beds also come with extras, such as under-bed drawers or removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames designed for infants and young children. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric with a simple mattress. Others are more sturdy and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.
While the cost of a cot can vary in relation to the materials used and other features, most are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to assemble and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. Although it's a bit on the expensive side, its sleek design and high-end construction make this a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds provide an excellent return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of your furniture as your baby develops into a toddler and eventually, a full-sized bed. There are a variety of options that can convert a crib into a toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than the traditional cots. They may be more costly however, they last longer.
When purchasing a cot, take into consideration where it will be placed and how big the room is. Cots should be placed away from direct sunlight or heaters, and they should be well-ventilated. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, make sure to check the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. If you are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for advice.