How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots are a great place to sleep for your baby and offer you the needed time to relax between feedings, changing nappy and clean-ups. Take a look at our Canstar Blue reviews for the best nursery cots to make sure your baby has the best sleep possible.
Some cribs are designed to adapt to your child's needs and can be converted into a toddler bed using the kit. These are great for parents who want to avoid the expense of a new bed after the baby is old enough.
Size
When you're choosing the best bassinet or nursery cot there are a lot of things to take into account. If you're purchasing second-hand, it is important that the cot or bassinet you choose has passed all safety tests. You'll have to ensure the cot does not have sharp edges or protruding corner and also no tiny gaps that could entrap your baby's head, fingers or arms. It's also crucial to select an infant cot that meets Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of the cot you select will depend on the space you have and how long you plan to keep it in use. Standard cots measure 60cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants and toddlers. Some cots are able to be converted to a single or toddler bed for children and can be used for longer. This is an excellent option for those who want to avoid buying a new bed each time you have a child.
Many cots have adjustable height settings, so you can alter the mattress to fit your baby's growing body. They can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels depending on the design. Some cots permit the removal of one side of the bed completely which is useful when your baby is beginning to walk or you'd like to experiment with co-sleeping with your toddler.
Compact cots usually have wheels or castors to allow them to be easily moved between rooms. These are useful when you live in a small house and don't have a nursery. They can also serve as a travel cot when you are planning to travel away from home with your baby, or if you need to transfer them between the homes of family members during holidays. Some cots can be converted into a small toddler bed or even a sofa. This allows your toddler to sleep alongside you with peace of mind that they are still secure and in your reach.
Style
A cot is the centrepiece of your nursery and is the most important piece of furniture you will have to purchase for your baby. It should be safe and sturdy. It should be free of sharp edges protruding from the sides and no places where children's arms, fingers or head could become entangled. The cot must also comply with Australian standards for cots. It's important that you don't purchase second-hand cots because they may not be in compliance with current safety standards.
Cots are available in a wide range of styles and colours to suit any decor. They can even be decorated with a variety of accessories, like a cot mobile. These mobiles add contrasting colours and patterns to the crib, attracting your baby's attention as well as stimulating sensory development. They can aid your baby to sleep longer and soothe them during soothing sessions.
Another style that is popular is the wicker coffin. This material is reminiscent of simpler times and is ideal for rooms with a natural theme. Its simple design makes this cot a great option for children of all ages, and is often cheaper than other cots. If you do decide to buy a wicker cot ensure that it is made of high-quality materials and meets all safety standards applicable to it.
There are also cots available in various shapes and styles. For example, some come with a built-in storage space. This is a great option to store all of your baby's essentials, such as diapers, clothing, bedding and other items. Some cots have legs which lift them off the floor, which helps to keep them clean and prevent them from being exposed to germs and dust.
Some cots can be transformed into a toddler's bed that can be used until the age of 6 years. This feature is particularly useful when you are planning to have additional children or want to save money by purchasing multiple beds for your growing family. For instance, the Leander cot that has an extension kit can be converted into a toddler bed that can keep your child for age 7. This option can save you a lot of time and money in the long term.
Safety
When shopping for a nursery cot, choose one that is sturdily constructed from durable materials. It should have a solid base and solid sides with no gaps that could allow fingers to get trapped in the slats. Check for furniture that has non-toxic finishes and does not peel or chip. If you are unsure of the safety of a product, seek out certifications that prove it has been tested to ensure it meets all relevant requirements.
Some parents prefer the Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. These are perfect for babies, as they offer a secure place for baby to sleep without having to leave them to themselves. If your baby grows too big for this item, you can use the top of the cot to allow them to leave smaller spaces.
To decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS) It is crucial to adhere to sleep guidelines. NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to avoid pillows, blankets, or toys that could cause the suffocation of your child.
Bookshelves, dressers, and other storage furniture are also a risk in the event that a curious child climbs or leans on them. Make sure that tall pieces are securely anchored to the wall and are regularly checked for stability. Also, keep heavier items on the bottom of shelves and drawers so that they can distribute their weight and prevent accidents.
Choking hazards are a different security concern in a nursery. Many children love nibbling on slats, corners or other elements of the rails of the cot. You can stay clear of these dangers by choosing a cot with smooth corners and no protruding edges or removing these elements once your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
Additionally it is recommended to avoid using any wall-mounted ornaments or clocks with lengthy cords near the cot. If their hands or toes are trapped in the cords children and babies could be strangled. Also, keep 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 aspects of a child's room as this is where they will spend most of their first year. It is therefore worthwhile to invest in a stylish crib that sets the style for your room's decor. There are numerous options on the market. These include contemporary cots with sleek designs and clean-lined lines. They will blend seamlessly with any decor. There are also traditional cots such as those made of metal that are perfect for rooms that have been decorated with vintage style.
Wooden cots are popular due to their organic appearance that can be paired with an array of nursery decors. They are usually made of either maple or birch, and are then varnished to protect them against accidental scratches. However they can be costly and not suited to all budgets.
If you're looking for a truly unique baby cot, you should consider purchasing one with curving edges. This gives the cot a distinct look and make it stand out among other cots. They are also known for their utility since they provide more space under the cot to store things.
Another option is to buy a cot that is converted into a toddler bed and an adult bed. This is a great way to maximize the value of your money, and it will ensure that your child's bed will last all their developmental stages. Some cots are equipped with conversion kits, while others can be purchased separately.
When you are choosing a cot ensure that it is in compliance with British safety standards. This includes making sure that the mattress is set correctly and that there are no gaps where your child may escape from the crib. Remove any decorations or stickers that could create a choking risk. Also, ensure that the bars of the crib are not too close.
There are a wide range of cots online and in stores at retailers like Dunelm Ikea and John Lewis. It is recommended to shop in-store, because you'll be able to see the cots in person and decide if they are appropriate for your child.