How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots allow your baby to sleep comfortably and also give you an opportunity to take a break from feedings, changing nappies and cleaning up. Look through our Canstar Blue reviews for the best nursery cots for making sure your baby has the best quality sleep they can get.
Some cribs are designed to grow with your child and can be converted to a toddler bed with a kit. They are perfect for parents who want to save money on buying a new bed once the baby is old enough.
Size
There are a variety of aspects to take into account when choosing the right nursery cot or bassinet. If you are buying second-hand, you must ensure that the cot or bassinet you select is safe and passes all safety tests. You'll need to make sure the cot does not have sharp edges or protruding corner and no tiny gaps that could trap your baby's head, fingers or arms. It's also crucial to select a cot that meets Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of the cot you pick will depend on the space you have and how long you plan to keep it in use. Standard cots measure 60 cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants and toddlers. However, some cots are designed to convert into an infant bed or a child's single bed, meaning they can be used for a longer period of time. This is an excellent option for families with more than one child and don't want to purchase a new bed for each child.
You can alter the height of many cots to suit the body changes of your baby. They can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels, depending 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 if you'd like to sleep with your baby.
Compact cots usually have wheels or castors to enable them to easily move between rooms. These can be particularly useful in homes that are small and doesn't have a designated nursery. They can also serve as a travel cot when you plan to go outside the home with your baby or to move them between family members' homes to celebrate holidays. Some cots can be converted into an infant bed or sofa. This allows you to sleep with your child, providing peace-of-mind that they are safe and within reach.
Style
The crib is the most essential furniture piece you'll purchase for your baby. It should be sturdy and secure. It should be free of sharp protruding edges and have no areas where a child's arms, fingers, or head could become entangled. A cot should also be in compliance with Australian cot standards. It's important that you don't buy second-hand cots as they may not be in compliance with current safety standards.
Cots come in a wide range of styles and colours to suit any decor. You can decorate them with a range of accessories, including the cot-mobile. These mobiles add contrasting colours and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention as well as stimulating their sensory development. They can also help soothe your baby during calm times and aid in a better sleep.
Another popular style is a Wicker the cot. This material evokes simpler times and is ideal for rooms with an organic theme. Its simple design makes this cot an excellent option for babies of any age, and is often cheaper than other cots. If you decide to buy a wicker crib, make sure it is made from high-quality materials, and it is in compliance with all safety standards.
There is also cot beds and colors for cots. Some cots come with a built-in space for storage. This is a great way to keep all the baby's items, including bedding, nappies, clothes and other necessities. Some cots are elevated off of the ground, which keeps them cleaner and prevents them from being contaminated by dust and other germs.
Some cots are made to convert into a toddler bed which can be used until your child is around 6 years old. This is especially beneficial when you're planning to have more kids or to save money on buying more beds for your growing family. The Leander cot can be converted to a toddler bed, which will last until the age of 7. This can save you a lot of time and money in the long term.
Safety
Choose a sturdy cot made of durable materials when looking for a crib for your baby's nursery. It should have a sturdy base and sturdy sides with no gaps between slats, which could let baby fingers get stuck. Look for furniture with non-toxic finishes that don't peel or chip. If you're unsure about the safety of a product be sure to look for certifications that show the item has been tested and meets all regulations applicable to it.
Some parents opt for a Moses basket or a crib instead of a traditional bed. They are ideal for infants because they offer a secure place to sleep for the baby without having to leave the child alone. If your baby gets too big for this cot it is possible to use the top of the cot to move them out of smaller spaces.
To lower the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS) to reduce the risk of developing SIDS, it is important that you follow the sleep guidelines. NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to stay clear of loose blankets, pillows or toys that could cause suffocation.
Other potential dangers include bookshelves, dressers, and other furniture for storage that can tip over if an uninitiated child leans on or climbs them. Make sure that any large pieces are securely fixed to the wall and are regularly examined for stability. Also, place heavier items on the bottom of shelves and drawers to distribute their weight to prevent accidents.
Another safety issue is the presence of choking hazards in a nursery. Children are known to eat on the cot rails corners, slats, or corners. You can avoid these hazards by choosing a cot with smooth corners and no edges that protrude or by removing these elements once your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
It is also recommended to avoid placing any wall-mounted clocks or other accessories with long cords close to the cot. Babies and children are at risk of strangulation if get their hands or feet stuck in the cords. Set cots in a safe distance from windows with cords that are long on blinds or curtains that could lead to an accident.
Originality
One of the most important things in a nursery for a baby is their bed, since it will be the place they spend the majority of their time during their first years. This is the reason it is worth investing in a stylish cot that will help to establish the tone for the interior of the room. There are many options available on the market, including contemporary cots with modern designs and clean lines that seamlessly blend into any space. There are also traditional cots like metal ones, which are perfect for rooms decorated in classic styles.
Wooden cots are sought-after because of their organic look that will complement many different nursery decors. They are typically made of birch, maple or beech and are typically coated with varnish to protect them from accidental scratches. They can be quite expensive, however, so they aren't suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're looking to purchase a truly unique baby cot, think about buying one with curving edges. This gives it a distinct style that will make it stand out from other cots that are available. These cots also offer more storage space beneath.
Another option is to buy a cot that is transformed into a toddler bed or an adult bed. This is a great option to make the most of your budget, and ensure that your child's bed will last throughout the entire development phase. Some cots are sold with conversion kits and others can be bought separately.
When choosing a cot, make sure it is in compliance with British safety regulations. This includes checking that the mattress is placed correctly and that there are no gaps where your child can fall out of the crib. Remove any stickers or other decorations that could create danger of choking. Also, ensure that the bars of the crib aren't too close.
You can find a large selection of cots on the internet and in stores at stores like Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. It is best to purchase from a store because you'll be able see the cots in person and determine if they're suitable for your baby.