How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots let your baby rest comfortably and provide you with an opportunity to take a break from feedings, changing nappies, and cleaning up. Check out our Canstar Blue reviews for the best nursery cots to make sure that your child gets the best quality sleep they can get.
Some cots can be transformed into an infant bed using the help of a kit. These are perfect for parents who don't wish to spend money on a new bed when their child is old enough.
Size
There are many things to consider when choosing the best nursery cot or bassinet. If you're purchasing second-hand, it is important that the cot or bassinet you choose is safe and passes all safety tests. You'll want to ensure that the cot is free from sharp edges or protruding corners, and that there aren't small gaps where your baby could fall into their head, fingers, or arms entangled. It is also important to select the cot that is in compliance with Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of your cot will depend on the space you have and how long it will be used. The most common cots measure around 60 cm in size, and 120 cm wide, which is suitable for infants and toddlers. Some cots can be converted to a single or toddler bed for children which allows them to be used longer. This is a great option for families with more than one child and you don't want to buy a new bed for each child.
You can adjust the height of many cots to suit the changing body of your baby. These can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels based on the design. Some cots let you take off the entire side of the bed, which can be beneficial when your baby starts to walk or you'd like to share a bed with your baby.
Small cots are usually equipped with wheels or castors to make them easy to move between rooms. They can be especially useful if your home is small and doesn't have a dedicated nursery. They can also serve as a travel cot if you are planning to travel out of the house with your child, or if you need to move them between the homes of family members during holidays. Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or even a sofa. This lets you sleep with your child, giving you peace of mind knowing that they are safe and close.
Style
A cot is the centrepiece of your nursery and is the most essential piece of furniture you will have to purchase for your baby. It must be sturdy and safe. It shouldn't contain sharp edges or spaces where children could get their fingers, head or arms entangled. Also, a cot should be in conformity with Australian standards for cots. Avoid purchasing second-hand cots because they may not meet the current safety standards.
Cots come in a variety of styles and colours to suit any decor. You can embellish them with a wide range of accessories such as the cot-mobile. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention and stimulating sensory development. They can also help your baby rest longer and calm them during soothing sessions.
Another popular design is a Wicker cot. It is reminiscent of simpler times and is ideal for a room with an earthy theme. Its simple design makes this cot a fantastic option for children of any age and is usually less expensive than other types of cots. If you decide to purchase a wicker crib, be sure it is made from high-quality materials, and that it meets all safety standards.
There are also cots available in different shapes and finishes. For example, some come with a built-in storage area. This is a great way to store all of your baby's essentials like nappies, clothing bedding, and other things. Some cots are elevated from the ground, which keeps them cleaner and prevents them from being contaminated by dust and other germs.
Some cots can be transformed into a bed for toddlers that can be used up to the age of 6 years. This feature is especially useful for families planning to have more children or want to save money on purchasing more beds for your growing family. For instance, the Leander cot with an extension kit can be transformed into a toddler bed that will keep your child until age 7. This option could save you lots of time and money in the long term.
Safety
Choose a sturdy cot constructed of durable materials when looking for a crib for your baby's nursery. It should have a solid base and sturdy sides with no gaps between slats that could let baby fingers get stuck in them. Check for furniture that has non-toxic finishes that don't chip or peel. If you're uncertain about the safety of an item, look for certifications that demonstrate it has been vetted and meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents opt for the Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. These are ideal for newborns, as they offer a secure place for baby to sleep and not have to leave them alone. If your baby grows too big for this cot, you can use the top of the cot to help them move out of these smaller spaces.
In addition, to ensure that your child's cot is safe It is also important to follow the guidelines for sleeping to minimize the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to avoid pillows, blankets or toys that can cause suffocation.
Dressers, bookshelves, and other storage furniture can also be dangerous if a curious child climbs or leans against them. Be crib sets that all tall pieces are securely anchored to the wall and are regularly checked for stability. Also, keep heavier objects at the bottom of shelves and drawers so that they can distribute their weight to prevent accidents.
Choking hazards are a further danger in the nursery. Many children enjoy nibbling on slats, corners or other components of the rails for the cot. You can avoid these hazards by purchasing a cot with rounded corners and no protruding edges, or by eliminating these elements when your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
In addition it is recommended to avoid using any wall-mounted ornaments or clocks with long cords near the cot. If their hands or toes are stuck in the cords, children and infants could be strangled. Also, position cots away from windows where curtains or blinds have long cords that can cause a fall.
Originality
The bed is among the most important aspects of a baby's room, as this is where they'll spend most of their first year. This is why it is worth investing in a stylish cot that can help set the tone for the interior of the room. There are numerous options on the market, including modern cots with modern designs and clean lines that blend seamlessly into any space. There are also traditional cots, such as metal ones, which are great for rooms decorated in classic styles.
Wooden cots also have an natural look and can be paired with various nursery decors. They are often made from birch, maple or beech and are usually coated with varnish to guard against accidental scratches. They can be quite expensive however, and are not suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're looking for an exclusive baby cot, consider buying one with curving edges. This gives the cot a distinctive aesthetic and make it stand out among other cots. They also have additional storage space underneath.
A cot can be turned into a toddler bed and a day bed. This is a great way to maximize the value of your money, and it will ensure that your child's bed will be able to last through every stage of growth. Some cots come with conversion kits and others can be bought separately.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it meets British safety regulations. It is crucial to make sure that the mattress is properly fitted and that there aren't any gaps that could let your child escape from the crib. Remove any stickers or other decorations that could create a choking risk. Also, check that the bars of the crib are not too close together.
You can find a wide variety of cots online and in-store at retailers such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. It is best to purchase from a store as you will be able to view the cots up close and determine if they're appropriate for your child.