How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are a safe, comfortable and secure place for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not follow safety guidelines.

The Mamas & Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top choice. It has been praised for its aesthetics and ease of assembly and high-quality construction. It is suitable for babies and can be converted to a toddler bed with the purchase of 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. If you are thinking of purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is vital to ensure it complies with the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It must also be free of stickers and transfers that could present dangers to choking and any protrusions from the top rail that might get caught in your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.

It's also important to make sure that the cot is correctly constructed, especially in the case of a hand-me-down or an older model. Older cots could have been painted in leaded paint, which is harmful to babies. Modern cots have a locking mechanism that prevents the crib from collapsing or folding when your child is in.

It is essential to choose the correct mattress for your child. It should be firm and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its life.

It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as your children increase in size. This will stop them from climbing out and falling out of bed, as well as reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also recommended to measure the base height regularly particularly after your child has started pulling themselves up and crawling around in their sleep.

When your baby is outgrowing their crib or bassinet an cot bed is the next step in their development. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a cot and BS 8509 as bed will ensure they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their lives. Then, you'll need to think about a single bed or bunk bed as they enter the toddler years. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide selection of cot beds that meet all safety standards.

Style

It can be a challenge for parents with young children to select the best Cot Bed that is safe and fashionable. If you do a little research, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your home decor. The best cots come in various styles, including solid fronts and sides with slats. You can choose one that matches your style and the space of your baby.

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

The length of time your cot will be used is an important factor. As soon as your child is able to stand without assistance, which is typically at around the age of three and up, you should transition them into a toddler's bed. For this reason, selecting an cot for sale that converts into a toddler bed may be a wise investment. You'll be able to buy the mattress you need separately, and when your child is ready to go on, the base of the bed can be lowered down to its lowest level to ensure security.

Many parents also opt for the sleigh or four-poster cot design. They can bring an element of glamour and luxury to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. They can be complemented by curtains or a canopy to add a touch of elegance.

Always pick breathable fabrics for your cheap baby cots for sale's crib such as cotton or bamboo. This will be gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using heavy blankets, as these could pose the risk of suffocation. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are comfortably to the mattress and ensure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will reduce the chance of tripping and snagging, and also increase the security of your child's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are perfect for families growing, as they can easily transformed into a junior or Affordable Cots toddler bed at the time of need. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of buying a new bed for their child as they transition from baby to toddler.

The convertible cot design features customizable sides that can be fixed, have doors, or fold down to make it easy to access. They are designed to minimize the risk of entrapment, and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that permit your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage the child's independence and encourages exploration.

The majority of cot beds are adjustable to accommodate your baby's development requirements. The highest position is typically used in the initial few months, then when your baby grows and starts to roll over, you can lower the base to prevent them falling out of the cot. When your child is able to sit up unaided you can use the lowest base position which will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.

If you prefer a more traditional style, a classic style will blend in with any nursery cots decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they're made from durable and sturdy wood. The slats of the cot are tightly spaced to ensure your child's safety. Additionally, they have been 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 even come with a baby changing table to make it easier to change your baby. You can also save space and money by not having to purchase a separate cabinet to change your baby.

Some cots have even more innovative designs, such as the Pinette, which has an wooden frame with a home-like style that is perfect for hanging toys. It also makes a great secret bedroom when it is covered with a sheet. It is also built to last, with an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate a 10-year-old junior bed.

Storage

Finding the ideal cot is a smart investment whether you're furnishing your nursery or creating a comfortable space for your loved one. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long time and adapts to your child's growing needs with adjustable mattress heights and rails for teething. Look for a design with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds come with extra features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.

Cots are light, portable sleeping frames designed for infants and young children. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more sturdy and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of the kind.

Most cots are affordable, however, the cost can differ based on the materials and features. For instance, the budget Westport cot from Silver Cross takes just over an hour to put together and includes easy-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. Although it's more expensive than the average but its sleek design and durable construction make this a worthwhile investment.

Convertible cot-beds are a great investment as they allow you to utilize the furniture for many years as your child grows from a baby to an adult, and eventually to a larger bed. You can pick from a variety of options that transform cribs into toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are usually larger than traditional cribs. They can be more expensive, but they last longer.

When purchasing a cot, take into consideration where it will be placed and how big the room is. Cots must be kept away from heat sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Make sure that the area is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and other toys. Also, if you're buying a second-hand cot, make sure you check the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.