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 follow safety guidelines.

Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley crib, which earned praise for its aesthetics, quality construction and the ease of assembly. It's suitable for infants and can be converted to 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 if it meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand cot or heirloom cot has been cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It must also be free of stickers and transfers which could create a choking hazard and any protrusions on the top rail that could get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.

It's also important to ensure that the cot is properly assembled, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or a vintage model. Older cots might have been painted using lead paint, which could be toxic to babies. Newer models typically come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot can't collapse or fold down while your child is inside.

Selecting the right mattress for your baby is important. It must be firm, fit snugly inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use a waterproof mattress cover to protect the fabric and prolong its lifespan.

A cot that has an adjustable base height is a good option, since it allows you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, while also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It's also a good idea to check the height of the base frequently particularly after your child is starting to pull themselves up and crawling around during sleep.

Once your baby has outgrown their bassinet or crib, a cot bed is the next step in their growth. Select a cot or bed that is compliant with the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 for the bed. This will ensure that your baby is protected throughout the first six months. Then, you'll need 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 choose the right Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a little investigation, you can find a cot that looks elegant and matches your decor. The most stylish cot beds come with a range of styling options such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.

There are plenty of cots on the market to suit all tastes and budgets regardless of whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something in between. Some cots have additional features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers to keep things tidy and neat.

The length of time your cot will be used is an important aspect. Once your child is able to stand up without assistance, which is usually at around the age of three it is time to change them into the bed of a toddler. Therefore, opting for an cot that converts into a toddler bed could be a good investment. You can buy the mattress separately and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.

Many parents also opt for Cots4tots.co.uk the sleigh or four poster cot designs. They can add a touch of elegance and class to any room, and work especially well in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains for added effect.

It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding, such as 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 danger of being suffocated. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and ensure there aren't any gaps between the two sides of the mattress. This will lower the chance of tripping or snagging and increase the overall safety of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds can be changed easily to a toddler or junior bed for growing families. This will save parents money and also the burden of purchasing an entirely new bed each time their child grows from baby to a toddler.

The design of the convertible cot provides for customisation. It can include sides that are stationary, with doors or that fold down to provide easy access. They are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment, and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. There are also clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings, encouraging independence and a sense of 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 position is typically used during the first few months, then as your baby grows and begins to crawl, you can lower the base to stop them falling out of the cot. Once your child can sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position for base 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 design that blends seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots are typically made of durable and strong wood that will last for a long time. The slats are spaced to ensure the security of your baby and they're treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots 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. It will also save you the expense and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.

Some cots come with ingenious designs, like the Pinette, which has wooden frames with a house-like design that is ideal to hang toys. It is also a great room when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last with an innovative design that allows it to adapt to your child's needs and accommodate the age of 10 in a junior bed.

Storage

Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you are furnishing a nursery or creating a baby friendly space for a loved-one. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long period of time and adapts to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and rails for teething. Find a cot that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features allowing you to put it together at home. Some cot beds come with extras, like drawers under the bed or movable changing tops.

Cots are portable, lightweight frames for sleeping that are suitable for small children and infants. Some models are made of light wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more robust, and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet the strict UK safety standards, irrespective of their design.

Most cots are reasonably priced, however, the cost can vary depending on the materials and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot by Silver Cross takes just over an hour to construct and includes easy-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's on the expensive side, however its sleek design and quality construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cot beds provide the best return on your initial investment, extending the use of the furniture as your child grows into a toddler and eventually, a full-size bed. You can find beds that convert from a crib to an adult bed, or even sofas. These beds are usually larger than the traditional cribs. They are more expensive however they last longer.

Consider where you will place the cot and how big the room is before purchasing one. Cots should be placed away from heating sources or direct sunlight, and they should be well-ventilated. Make sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot, check the frame for protrusions which could be a hazard to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.