Ten Cot Beds That Really Improve Your Life
How to Choose a Cot Bed
mini cot beds beds offer the safety, comfort and secure place for your child to sleep. They can be dangerous however should you fail to adhere to safety guidelines.
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 is suitable for babies from birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's bed using an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds are designed to provide an environment that is safe and comfortable for your baby. The most important factor to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. It is important to check whether a second-hand or heirloom cot been cleaned and meets the most recent British standards. It should also be free from stickers and other transfers that could present a choking hazard as well as any protrusions from the top rail which could catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Make sure the cot is being properly assembled, particularly if it is a vintage or hand-me-down model. Older cots might have been painted with lead paint, which can be toxic to babies. Modern models have an integrated locking mechanism which prevents the cot from collapsing or folding when your child is in.
It is essential to choose the right mattress for your child. It should be firm and snugly inserted into the cot, with no gaps on either side. It is also recommended to use a mattress protector that is waterproof to shield the fabric from damage and extend its life.
It is recommended to select a cot with an adjustable base height that allows you to lower the mattress as they grow. This will help prevent them from climbing out of the cot and falling out of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to check the height of the base regularly, especially if your baby starts crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.
When your baby is no longer in their crib, or bassinet and is now ready for the purchase of a cot-bed. Select a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 for the bed. This will ensure your baby is protected during the first six months. As they age you may want to consider the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet all safety standards.
Style
For new parents, choosing a Cot Bed that's not only secure for your baby but that is also stylish is a daunting task. With a little research, you can find a cot that is fashionable and complements your decor. The best cots and tots (previous) come in different designs, such as solid fronts and slatted side panels. You can pick one that matches your style and the room of your baby.
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 else in between. Some cots are equipped with additional features, such as teething rails and drawers underneath the bed to keep things tidy and neat.
Another thing to take into consideration is the duration of use of your cot. You will want to move your child to an adult bed at the time they are able to stand up on their own and sit up on their own, which is usually at around the age of three. Therefore, choosing a cot that will convert into a toddler bed may be a great investment. You can purchase the mattress separately, and when your child is ready, you can lower the bed base to the lowest setting.
The sleigh and four poster crib designs are also popular with new parents. They can bring an element of luxury and glamour to any nursery, and work best cots for newborns in rooms with high ceilings. They can also be complemented by a canopy or curtains for added effect.
Always pick breathable fabrics for your baby's crib, such as bamboo or cotton. It will be gentle on your baby's skin and will help them regulate their temperature. Avoid using heavy blankets since they can increase the risk of being suffocated. Ideally, you should use fitted sheets that are snugly fit over the mattress and make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall safety of your baby's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds are great for growing families as they can easily changed into a junior or toddler bed at the time of need. This can help parents save money and avoid the hassle of having to buy an entirely new bed each time their child grows from infant cot bed to a toddler.
The convertible cot design comes with customizable sides that can be static, have doors or fold down for easy access. These are designed to reduce the risk of entrapment and provide a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some also have clear panel options which allow your child to view their surroundings, which can help foster independence and a sense of exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted base positions to suit your baby's needs and developmental stages. As your baby grows you can lower the settings to keep them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able to sit up without assistance, you can choose the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
If you're looking for more of traditional style can opt for a classic design that blends seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are usually constructed with durable and sturdy wood that will stand the test of time. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're coated with non-toxic finishes.
Other cots are a little more modern and include features like built-in storage, teething rails, and mobile stands. Some cots have a changing table to make it easier to change your child. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet to change your baby.
Some cots are even more creative than that and include the Pinette which features a wooden frame with a house design which is perfect for hanging toys and is the ideal secret den when surrounded by a sheet. It is built to last, with an innovative design that lets it adapt to your child's needs and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.
Stores
When you're decorating the nursery or creating a welcoming space for a loved one, choosing the right crib bed is an essential investment. Select a cot that is able to be used for a long time, adapting to your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and teething rails. Find a cot with flatpack features that permit you to build it yourself. Some cot beds come with additional features, like under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are lightweight, portable sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are made of lightweight wood or fabric with simple mattresses. Others are more substantial and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their kind.
While the price of a cot varies according to the materials used and additional features, they are generally within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to construct and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. It's on the pricey side however its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Convertible cot beds offer the best return on your initial investment, extending the use of the furniture as your tot grows into a toddler and eventually a full-size bed. You can find options that convert from a crib to a toddler bed or even sofas. These beds are generally larger than traditional cots, and may cost more, however they are more durable.
Take into consideration where you will put the cot, and how big the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be kept away from any direct sunlight or heaters and should be well-ventilated. Also, ensure that the room is free of clutter and other dangers like toys, blankets and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could pose a risk to your child. If you are concerned, contact the manufacturer for assistance.