15 Things You Didn't Know About Cot Bed How to Choose a Cot Bed

Cot beds offer the safety, comfort and secure place for your child to rest. They can be dangerous, however, if you do not follow safety guidelines.

Our top pick is the Mamas and Papas Coxley cot bed, which earned high marks for its design and construction quality, as well as 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 offer a safe and secure environment for your baby. It is crucial to verify whether the cot is safe and meets current safety standards. It is essential to ensure whether a second-hand cot or an heirloom cot has been thoroughly cleaned and meets the most current British standards. It should also be free from stickers and transfers that could pose a choking hazard as well as any protrusions from the top rail that could catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.

Check that the cot is assembled correctly, especially when it is an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots might have been sprayed with lead paint which is toxic for babies. Modern cots usually include a locking mechanism that will ensure the cot won't collapse or fold when your child is in.

It is crucial to select the correct mattress for your child. It should be sturdy and fit snugly in the cot, with no gaps on either side. Use a mattress cover that is waterproof to protect the fabric and extend its lifespan.

It is recommended to select a cot with an adjustable base height which allows you to lower the mattress as they expand. This will prevent them from climbing out and falling out of bed, and reduce the risk of SIDS. It's also an excellent idea to monitor the height of the base frequently, especially after your baby has begun pulling themselves up and crawling during sleep.

When your baby is outgrowing their crib or bassinet a cot bed is the next step in their growth. Selecting a bed that is in line with the British safety standards BS EN 716 as a crib and BS 8509 for bed will ensure that they have a safe space to sleep for the first six months of their life. As they grow older you may think about a bunk bed or a single bed. Babymore offers a variety of cots that meet the highest safety standards.

Style

For parents who are new, deciding on the right Cot Bed that's secure for your baby but that also looks stylish can be a challenge. With a bit of research, you can find the perfect cot for your baby, which will look elegant and complement your decor. The top cot beds come with different styles that include slatted sides as well as solid fronts, so you can choose the one that suits your baby's room as well as your style preferences.

There are a variety of cots available online to fit all tastes and budgets, whether you're searching for a modern, traditional or something in between. Some cots come with extra features such as teething rails and under-bed drawers, to help you keep everything neat and tidy!

Another crucial aspect to take into account is the duration of use of your cot. You'll want to transfer your child into a toddler bed as soon as they can stand up on their own typically at the age of 3. This is why choosing an cot that converts 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 base to its lowest level.

The sleigh and four-poster crib designs are also a popular choice for many new parents. These can bring the look of luxury and glamour to any nursery and can work particularly well in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create an even more striking effect.

It is recommended to select breathable bedding for your baby's bed such as bamboo or cotton. This will be gentle on the skin of your baby and will help them regulate their temperature. Also, avoid using blankets with heavy weights because they can pose a suffocation risk. Use fitted sheets which fit snugly over the mattress. Be sure that there aren't any gaps on either side of the bed. This will lower the chance of tripping or snagging and improve the overall security of your baby's bed.

Convertibility

Cot beds can be changed easily into a junior or toddler bed for families growing. This will spare parents the cost and hassle of purchasing a new bed for their child as they transition from infant to toddler.

The design of the convertible cot provides for customisation. It can include sides that are stationary and have doors, or fold down for 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, which can help foster independence and an appreciation for exploration.

The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental requirements. The highest position is typically used during the first few months, but as your baby grows and begins to roll over you can lower the base to avoid them falling out of the cot. When your child is able sit up without assistance, you can use the lowest position of the base. This will still allow him or her to climb in and out of the cot without injury.

For those who prefer a traditional look can opt for a classic design that will fit in seamlessly with any nursery decor. These cots are generally made from sturdy and durable wood that will last for a long time. The slats of the cot are closely spaced for your child's safety and they have been treated with non-toxic finishes.

Some cots are more modern, with features such as built-in storage and teething rails. Some cots have a changing table that makes it easier to change your child. This will also save you the expense and space of having an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.

Some cots are more creative than that, such as the Pinette which features a house design wooden frame that's perfect to hang toys from and is the perfect place to hide when surrounded by a sheet. It is built to last, with an innovative design that allows it to grow with your child and accommodate up to the age of 10 in a junior bed.

Storage

When you're decorating the nursery or constructing a baby-friendly space for your loved one, finding the right crib bed is an essential investment. Choose a cot with adjustable mattress heights, teething rails, and other features that will let you make use of it for a long time. Look for a design with flatpack features that allows you to build it yourself. Some cot beds also come with additional features, such as drawers under the bed or removable changing tops.

Cots are lightweight, portable sleeping frames designed for babies and toddlers. Some models are made of lightweight fabrics or wood with simple mattresses. Others are more robust, and can be transformed into toddler beds. No matter what type, all cots are required to meet strict UK safety standards.

Most cots are affordable, although the price may vary based on the material and features. The budget Westport cot by Silver Cross, for example is built to take less than an hour to assemble and comes with simple-to-follow instructions and an Allen key. Baby beds Cots For Tots UK 's on the pricey side but its sleek style and sturdy construction make it a worthy investment.

Convertible cots offer a great return on the initial investment, and can extend the use of the furniture as your child grows into a toddler, and eventually, a full-size bed. There are options that transform from a crib into a toddler bed, or even a sofa. These beds are usually larger than traditional cots and are more expensive, but they offer greater longevity.


Take into consideration where you will put the cot and how large the room is prior to purchasing one. Cots should be ventilated and away from direct sunlight. Be sure the room is free of clutter, toys, blankets, and pillows. If you're purchasing a used cot, ensure that you examine the frame for any protrusions that could be a threat to your child. If you are concerned you should contact the manufacturer for guidance.