The Most Common Cot Bed Mistake Every Beginner Makes

How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds are a secure and comfortable place for your baby to sleep. However, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the safety guidelines.

Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed that received high marks for its beauty and quality construction, as well as its the ease of assembly. It is suitable from the time of birth, and can be transformed into a toddler's cot using an extension kit.

Safety

Cot Beds are designed to create a space that is safe and comfortable for your baby. It is essential to determine whether the cot is safe and meets the current safety standards. If you're considering purchasing a second-hand or heirloom crib, it is crucial to ensure that it meets the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should be free of stickers, transfers and protrusions that could cause dangerous choking.

Check that the cot is put together correctly, particularly if it is an antique or hand-me-down model. Older cots could have been painted with lead paint, which could be harmful to infants. Newer models typically come with a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot can't fold or collapse while your child is inside.

Selecting the right mattress for your baby is also critical. It should be sturdy and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps at either end. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to ensure the fabric's protection and prolong its life.

It is recommended to select a cot that has an adjustable height base that allows you to lower the mattress as your children expand. This will help prevent them from getting out of the cot and falling off of the bed, and also helping to reduce their risk of SIDS. It is a good idea to measure the height of the base regularly especially if your child begins crawling and pulling themselves up during sleep.

When your baby outgrows their crib, or bassinet then the next step is the cot bed. Selecting one that complies with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for bed will ensure they have a safe place to sleep for the first six months of their lives. As they grow older you may think about the possibility of a bunk or single bed. Luckily, Babymore offers a wide range of cot beds that meet the required safety standards.

Style

It can be difficult for new parents to choose a Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a little study, you can locate an cot that is elegant and matches your home decor. The most stylish crib beds have various styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room and your style preferences.

There are plenty of cots on the market that will suit any taste and budgets whether you're looking for traditional, modern, or something in between. Some cots have additional features like teething rails or drawers underneath the bed to keep things neat and tidy.

The length of time that your cot will be used is an important factor. It is recommended to move your child to a toddler bed as soon as they can sit up without assistance, which usually happens at the age of 3. A cot that is transformed into a bed for toddlers is a fantastic investment. You can buy the right mattress separately, and when your child is ready to go on, the base of the bed can be moved down to its lowest level for safety.

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

It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bedding, 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 as they can increase the risk of suffocation. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that fit comfortably over the mattress. Make sure there aren't any gaps on either side of the mattress. This will lessen the chance of tripping and snagging, and increase the safety of your child's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds are ideal for growing families as they can be easily transformed into a toddler or junior bed when the time comes. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of purchasing an entirely new bed for their child when they grow from baby to toddler.

The design of the convertible cot provides the user to customize. It can have sides that are stationary with doors or fold down to provide easy access. These are designed to minimise the chance of entrapment and help create a safe sleeping environment for your child. Some have clear panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This helps encourage independence and a feeling of exploration.

Most cot beds come with adjustable base positions to suit your baby's needs and stages of development. As your baby grows, you can lower the position to stop them from falling out of the crib. Once your child is able sit up without assistance, you can put the base in the lowest position of the base. This will still allow them to climb in and out of the cot without injury.

If you prefer a more traditional style the classic style will blend in with any nursery decor. These cots are built to last for a long time because they are made of strong and durable wood. The slats are also tightly spaced to ensure the safety of your child and they're coated with non-toxic paints.

look these up  are more modern and have features like built-in storage, teething rails and mobile stands. Some even come with a baby changing table to make it easier for you to change your baby. You will also save space and money by not needing to buy a separate cabinet for changing your baby.

Some cots have even more innovative designs, such as the Pinette that has wooden frames with a house-like design that is perfect for hanging toys. It is also a great bedroom when it is covered with sheets. It's also 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

Whether you're furnishing the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, choosing the right crib bed is a crucial investment. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will let you use it for many years. Choose a model with flatpack features that allow you to build it yourself. Some cot-beds come with additional features, such as drawers under the bed and removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable frames for sleeping designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Some models are made of a lightweight wood or fabric and have a mattress that is simple, whereas others are more robust and can be transformed into toddler beds. All cots have to meet strict UK safety standards, regardless of their design.

Most cots are reasonably priced, although the price may vary depending on the materials and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is less than an hour to construct and comes with easy-to follow directions and an Allen key. It's a little on the pricey side but its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cots offer the best return on the initial investment, and can extend the life of the furniture as your baby develops into a toddler and eventually a full-sized bed. You can choose from options that can convert cribs into toddler bed or even a sofa. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots, and can be more expensive however they are more durable.

When you are buying a cot, consider where you'll place it and how big the space is. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys blankets, pillows, and toys. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could pose a danger to your child. If you are concerned ask the manufacturer advice.