How to Choose best rated cribs are a safe and cozy place for your baby to sleep. They can be dangerous however, if you do not follow safety guidelines.
The Mamas and Papas Coxley cot-bed is our top pick. It has been praised for its beauty, ease of assembly, and its high-quality construction. It's suitable for infants and can be transformed into a toddler bed with the purchase of an extension kit.
Safety
Cot Beds provide a safe and secure environment for your baby. The most important thing to consider is whether the cot meets current safety standards. If you are thinking of purchasing a second-hand or an heirloom crib, it is vital to make sure it is in line with the latest British standards and has been thoroughly cleaned. It should also be free from stickers and other transfers that could pose dangers to choking as well as any protrusions from the top rail that might catch your child's clothing or prevent them from climbing out.
Make sure the cot is being properly assembled, particularly in the case of an old model or a hand-me-down. Older cots could have been sprayed with lead paint, which can be toxic to infants. Modern cots come with a locking mechanism built in that prevents the cot from folding or collapsing while your child is inside.
Choosing the right mattress for your baby is also important. It should be firm and snugly fit inside the cot and have no gaps on either side. You should also use a waterproof mattress protector to shield the fabric from accidents and extend its lifespan.
A cot with adjustable base height is a great choice as it will allow you to lower the mattress as your child grows. This will stop them from climbing out and falling off of the bed, as well as reduce the chance of SIDS. It's a good idea also to check the height of the base on a regular basis particularly if your child begins crawling and pulling themselves up in bed.
When your baby is outgrowing their crib or bassinet it's time to get a cot bed as the next step in their development. Choose a cot or bed that meets the British safety standards BS EN 7016 for a crib, and BS8509 to be beds. This will ensure your baby is protected throughout the first six months. After that, you'll want to think about a bunk or single bed when they reach their toddler years. Babymore offers a variety of cots that are compliant with all safety standards.
Style
It can be a challenge for new parents to pick the right Cot Bed that is safe and stylish. With a little investigation, you can find an cot that is stylish and fits your decor. The best cot beds come with different styles such as slatted sides, slatted sides, and solid fronts which means you can pick the one that suits your baby's room and your style preferences.
Whether you're looking for something modern, traditional or somewhere in between, there are a wide variety of cots available online that will suit all tastes and budgets. Some cots come with extra features, such as teething rails and under-bed drawers to keep things neat and tidy.
The amount of time your cot will be used is an important aspect. When your child can stand up without assistance, which usually occurs at around the age of three, you will want to change them into the bed of a toddler. This is why choosing a cot that will convert into a toddler bed can be a wise investment. You can purchase the mattress on its own and, when your child is ready, you can lower the bed's base to its lowest level.
The sleigh and four poster cot designs are also popular choices for new parents. They can provide the look of luxury and glamour to any nursery, and work best in rooms with high ceilings. You can also add a canopy or curtains to the set to create a more striking effect.
It is recommended to pick breathable fabrics for your baby's bed, such as bamboo or cotton. This is gentler on the delicate skin of your baby and help to regulate their temperature. You should also avoid using heavy blankets that are too heavy, as they could create a suffocation risk. It is recommended to use fitted sheets that are snugly over the mattress. Make sure there are no gaps on either side of the mattress. This will lessen the chance of tripping or snagging and also increase the security of your child's bed.
Convertibility
Cot beds can be converted easily into a toddler or junior bed for families that are growing. This will save parents money and the hassle of having to buy a new bed as their child grows from a baby to an adult.
The design of the convertible cot allows for customisation. It can include sides that are static with doors or fold down to provide easy access. These are designed to reduce the chance of entrapment and create a secure sleep environment for your child. Some have transparent panels that allow your child to see their surroundings. This encourages the child's independence and encourages exploration.
The majority of cot beds can be adjusted to meet your baby's developmental needs. As your baby grows, you can lower the setting to stop them from falling out of the crib. When your child is able to sit up on their own without assistance, you can select the lowest base position that will allow them to climb into and out of the cot in a safe manner.
Those looking for more of traditional style can opt for a classic style that can be incorporated seamlessly with any nursery decor. The cots will last for a long time as they're made from strong and durable wood. The slats of the cot are also closely spaced for your child's safety. They have been treated with non-toxic finishes.
Some cots are more modern with features such as built-in storage, teething rails and even a built-in shelf. Some even have a baby changing top to make it easier for you to change your baby. It will also save you the cost and space required to have an additional cabinet for changing your baby in your home.
Some cots are more innovative than others and include the Pinette which has a wooden frame with a house design which is perfect for hanging toys and is the ideal place to sleep in when covered with a sheet. It's also built to last thanks to its an innovative design that allows it to expand with your child to accommodate up to a 10 year old junior bed.
Stores
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. Pick a cot that can be used for a long time and can be adjusted to the needs of your growing child's needs by adjusting mattress heights and teething rails. Look for a design that's easy to assemble, with flatpack features that let you piece it together at home. Some cot-beds come with additional features, such as under-bed drawers and removable changing tops.
Cots are portable, lightweight sleeping frames for small children and infants. Some models are made from lightweight wood or fabric, and have a simple mattress. Others are more robust and can be converted into toddler beds. All cots must meet the strict UK safety standards, regardless of their type.
While the cost of a cot may vary in relation to the materials used and other features, the majority are within budget. The budget Westport cot from Silver Cross, for example, takes less than an hour to put together and comes with easy-to-follow directions and an Allen key. Although it's more expensive than the average but its sleek design and high-end construction make it a worthy investment.
Convertible cot-beds are a great investment as they permit you to make use of the furniture for a number of years as your child grows from a baby to a toddler, and finally into a bed of a large size. There are a variety of options that can convert cribs into toddler bed, or even a couch. These beds are typically larger than traditional cots and they can be more expensive but they provide longer-lasting use.
Think about where you'll put the cot and how large the room is before you purchase one. Cots should be placed away from any heat sources or direct sunlight, and they must be ventilated. Also, ensure that the space is free of any clutter and other dangers like blankets, toys and pillows. If you're buying a secondhand cot, be sure to inspect the frame for any protrusions which could be a threat to your child. Contact the manufacturer if have any concerns.