Buy a cot online | Discover safe cots for babies Accessories and safety standards
Part: 2
What should you look for when buying a baby crib?
What should you look for when buying a baby crib? When buying a baby crib, there are several important aspects to consider:
1. **Safety**: Make sure the crib complies with current safety standards. Check that the crib has a CE mark and that there are no sharp edges or dangerous materials.
2. **Material**: Choose a crib made from high-quality, non-toxic materials. Wood is a popular choice as it is robust and durable. Make sure the surfaces are well-finished and that no toxic varnishes or treatments have been used.
3. **Size**: Consider whether the crib is suitable for your baby and if it fits into the available space. Standard sizes are often easier to combine with mattresses and bedding.
4. **Adjustable mattress height**: A crib with adjustable mattress height is practical as you can adjust the height as your baby grows. Initially, the mattress can be set higher so you can more easily place and lift your baby.
5. **Convertible**: Some baby cribs can later be converted into a toddler bed. This can be a cost-effective and practical solution that serves you for several years.
6. **Ventilation and hygiene**: Ensure good ventilation of the crib to create a comfortable sleeping climate. Mattresses with a removable and washable cover are also recommended to ensure hygiene.
7. **Accessories**: Consider whether you need additional accessories, such as a suitable mattress, bedding, or cot bumpers. These should also be safe and suitable for babies.
8. **Value for money**: Set a budget, but remember that quality and safety should take precedence. Sometimes it is worth spending a little more for a high-quality product.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby.
Safety standards for baby cribs in Germany
1. **Safety**: Make sure the bed complies with current safety standards. Check that the bed has a CE mark and that there are no sharp edges or dangerous materials.
2. **Material**: Choose a bed made from high-quality, non-toxic materials. Wood is a popular choice as it is robust and durable. Make sure the surfaces are well-finished and that no toxic varnishes or treatments have been used.
3. **Size**: Consider whether the bed is suitable for your baby and if it fits into the available space. Standard sizes are often easier to combine with mattresses and bedding.
4. **Adjustable mattress height**: A bed with adjustable mattress height is practical as you can adjust the height as your baby grows. Initially, the mattress can be set higher so you can more easily place and lift your baby.
5. **Convertible**: Some baby beds can later be converted into a toddler bed. This can be a cost-effective and practical solution that serves you for several years.
6. **Ventilation and hygiene**: Ensure good ventilation of the bed to create a comfortable sleeping climate. Mattresses with a removable and washable cover are also recommended to ensure hygiene.
7. **Accessories**: Consider whether you need additional accessories, such as a suitable mattress, bedding, or cot bumpers. These should also be safe and suitable for babies.
8. **Value for money**: Set a budget, but remember that quality and safety should take precedence. Sometimes it is worth spending a little more for a high-quality product.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and create a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your baby.
Safety standards for baby cribs in Germany are of great importance to ensure the safety and well-being of infants and toddlers. These standards are established by various norms and guidelines that ensure baby cribs are both functional and safe.
An important standard is EN 716, which specifies particular requirements for the safety and health of baby cribs. This standard includes, among other things:
1. **Stability**: Baby cribs must be constructed stably to prevent tipping over. The materials must be robust and have a high load-bearing capacity.
2. **Distance between bars**: The distance between the bars must not exceed 6 cm to prevent the child from getting their head or other body parts trapped.
3. **Height adjustability**: Many modern baby cribs feature an adjustable mattress position, which allows the mattress to be fixed at different heights. This makes it easier to lift and lower the baby and provides additional protection as the child gets older and begins to pull themselves up.
4. **No sharp edges or corners**: All surfaces of a baby crib must be smooth and free of sharp edges or corners to prevent injuries.
5. **Materials**: The materials used must be non-toxic and free of harmful substances to avoid endangering the child's health. This applies to both the wood and the paints and varnishes.
6. **Mattresses**: The mattress should fit well, so there is no gap between the mattress and the bed. It must also be breathable and free of harmful substances.
7. **Additional safety features**: Some baby cribs offer additional safety features such as fall protection or removable bars that can be adapted to the child's development.
Parents should ensure when purchasing a baby crib that it bears the CE mark, which means that the product complies with European safety requirements. It is also advisable to choose baby cribs from reputable manufacturers who regularly conduct tests and provide transparent information about safety standards.
In Germany, there are also initiatives and organizations that advise and inform parents to ensure they make the best decisions for their children's safety.
Materials and workmanship of cot beds
Materials and workmanship of cot beds Cot beds are a popular choice for children's rooms as they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The materials used in the manufacture of cot beds play a crucial role in safety, durability, and comfort.
### Materials
1. **Wood**:
- Solid wood is one of the most common materials for cot beds. It offers high stability and durability.
- Beech and oak wood are particularly popular as they are robust and have a beautiful surface structure.
- Environmentally friendly wood species sourced from sustainable forestry are also a good choice.
2. **MDF and chipboard**:
- These materials are more cost-effective and offer a smooth surface that is easy to clean.
- However, it is important to ensure that they are treated with non-toxic varnishes and adhesives to avoid health risks.
3. **Metal**:
- Metal cot beds are also available and offer a modern, industrial aesthetic.
- They are generally lightweight and easy to transport, but may not offer the same warmth as wood.
### Workmanship
The workmanship of cot beds is just as important as the choice of material.
1. **Safety**:
- All edges should be rounded to prevent injuries.
- The distances between the bars must be designed so that the child cannot get their head or limbs stuck.
2. **Surface treatment**:
- The surfaces should be smooth and free of splinters.
- The use of non-toxic paints and varnishes is crucial to avoid endangering the child's health.
3. **Construction**:
- A stable construction is essential to prevent the bed from wobbling or tipping over.
- Many cot beds offer adjustable mattress heights, so the bed can grow with the child.
### Conclusion
When choosing a cot bed, it is important to pay attention to both the materials and the workmanship. A high-quality cot bed not only offers safety and comfort but also an appealing look for the children's room. Parents should take their time to compare different options and make the best choice for their child.
To be continued soon....
Your Babyhafen Team
Updated: 2026
About the Author
Babyhafen Expert Team
For over 13 years, Babyhafen has focused on safe and practical sleep solutions for babies. Our recommendations are based on experience, customer feedback, and current safety recommendations.
Babyhafen develops baby cribs and co-sleepers for parents in Germany with a focus on safety, comfort, and everyday usability.