How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots are a great place to sleep for your child and offer you much needed respite between nappy changes, feeds and clean-ups. Look through our Canstar Blue reviews for the best nursery cots to make sure your baby has the best sleep possible.
Some cots can be converted to toddler beds with kits. These are perfect for parents who don't want to buy the purchase of a new bed once their child is old enough.
Size
When choosing the right bassinet or nursery cot, there are many things to consider. If you're purchasing second-hand, it is important that the cot or bassinet you choose has passed all safety tests. You'll need to ensure that the cot is not afflicted from sharp edges or protruding corners, and that there aren't small gaps where your baby might be able to get their fingers, head or arms entangled. It is also important to select an infant cot that meets Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of the cot you choose will depend on your space and how long you plan to use it. Most standard cots are about 60 cm 120 cm, which is suitable for infants and toddlers. However, some cots are designed to transform into a toddler bed or children's single beds, which means they can be used for a longer period of time. This is a great choice if you want to avoid purchasing a new bed each time you have a child.
You can adjust the height of a number of cots to suit the body changes of your baby. They can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels based on the design. Some cots permit you to remove one side of the bed completely which is useful when your baby starts to walk or you'd like to try sleeping with your baby nipper.
Compact cots typically have castors or wheels that enable them to easily move between rooms. They are great for those who have an apartment that is small and do not have a nursery. You can also make them an alternative to a crib for travel if you plan to spend time away from home with your baby or be transported between homes of family members during holidays. Some cots can be converted into a tiny toddler bed or even sofas. This lets you sleep next to your child, giving you peace-of-mind that they are safe and within reach.
Style
The cot is the most important furniture piece you'll purchase for your baby. It must be strong and secure. It should not have sharp edges protruding from the sides and no places where children's arms, fingers or head might get caught in. Also, a cot should be in conformity with Australian standards for cots. Avoid buying second-hand cots since they might not meet current safety standards.
Cots are available in a variety of styles and colours to suit any decor. You can personalize them with a range of accessories including the cot-mobile. These mobiles bring contrasting patterns and colors into the crib, which will capture your child's attention and encourage their sensory development. They can also soothe your baby during calming sessions and help them sleep longer.
Another popular design is a Wicker the cot. It is reminiscent of simpler times and is perfect for a room with a natural theme. Its simple design makes it a great option for babies of all ages, and it is generally less expensive than other kinds of cots. If you decide to purchase a wicker cot, be sure that it is crafted from high-quality materials and meets all applicable safety standards.
There are also cots available in different shapes and finishes. Some cots are equipped with a storage space. This is a great way to store all of your baby's necessities like diapers, clothing bedding, and other things. Some cots come with legs that lift them off the ground, which helps to keep them clean and protect them from being exposed to dust and other germs.
Some cots are made to convert into a toddler bed that can be used until your baby is about 6 years old. This is especially beneficial if you're planning to have more kids or to save money on buying more beds for your growing family. The Leander cot can be changed to a toddler bed that will last your child until they reach the age of 7. This option will save you time and money.
Safety
Choose a sturdy cot constructed of durable materials when you shop for a crib for your baby's nursery. It should have a sturdy base and solid sides, with no gaps that could allow fingers to be caught in the slats. Also, check for furniture with nontoxic finishes that do not chip or peel. If you're not sure about the safety of a product, look for certifications that demonstrate the item has been vetted and meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents choose to use a Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. They are great for infants because they provide the baby with a safe place to sleep without having to leave them alone. However, if your baby is getting too big for these items you can make use of a cot top change to transition them from smaller rooms.
To reduce the risk for Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS), it is important that you follow sleep guidelines. NHS UK recommends using a firm mattress and avoiding loose blankets, pillows, toys or bumpers which could lead to the suffocation of your child.
Other possible hazards include bookshelves, dressers and other storage furniture that can tip over when an uninitiated child leans on or climbs them. Be sure that all tall pieces are securely anchored to the wall and regularly assessed for stability. Keep heavier objects at the lower levels of drawers and shelves to redistribute the weight and avoid accidents.
Choking hazards are a further safety concern in a nursery. Many children love nibbling on corners, slats or other elements of the cot rail. You can prevent these risks by choosing a cot with smooth corners and no edges that protrude or eliminating these elements when your child is old enough to stand on their own.
In addition it is advised to not use any wall-mounted decorative accessories or clocks with lengthy cords near the cot. Children and babies are at risk of strangulation if they have their feet or hands stuck in the cords. Also, position cots away from windows where blinds or curtains have cords that are long enough to cause an accident.
Originality
The bed is one of the most important parts of a child's room as this is where they will spend the majority of their year. It is therefore worthwhile to invest in a modern crib that will set the tone for your room's décor. There are many options available on the market, including modern cots that have modern designs and clean lines that will blend seamlessly into any space. There are also traditional cots such as those made of steel which are ideal for rooms that have been decorated with the vintage style.
Wooden cots are also very sought-after because of their organic design that is a perfect match for many different nursery decors. They are typically made of beech, maple or birch and are typically varnished to protect them from accidental scratches. They can be costly however, and aren't suitable for everyone's budget.
If you are looking for an exclusive baby cot, you should consider purchasing one with curved edges. This gives the cot a distinct look that makes it stand out among other cots. They also have more storage space beneath.
A cot can be turned into a toddler bed and a day bed. This is a great method to get more value for your money and it will ensure that your child's bed will be able to last through all of their growth stages. Some cots are sold with conversion kits, while others can be purchased separately.
When choosing a cot, make sure that it meets British safety standards. It is essential to make sure that the mattress is properly fitted and that there aren't any gaps that could let your child escape the crib. Remove any decorations or stickers that could cause a choking risk. Also, check that the crib's bars are not too close.
You can find a variety of cots online and in stores at retailers like Dunelm Ikea and John Lewis. online cots should always visit a store, as you can look at the cots, and decide if it is right for your child.