How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots offer a restful and comfortable sleep for your child, and give you the much-needed break between feedings, nappy changes and cleaning up. Check out our Canstar Blue reviews for the best nursery cots to make sure your baby gets the best quality sleep they can get.
Some cots can be transformed into a toddler bed with a kit. These are great parents who wish to avoid the expense of purchasing a new bed when the baby is old enough.
Size
When choosing the right bassinet or nursery cot there are a lot of things to take into account. If you're buying second-hand, it is important that the cot or bassinet you select has passed all safety tests. You'll want to ensure that the cot is free of 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. You should also select the cot that meets Australian standards.
The size of the cot you select will depend on your space and the length of time you intend to keep it in use. The most common cots measure around 60 cm x 120 cm and are suitable for toddlers and infants. Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler or single bed for children and can be used longer. This is a great option when you have more than one child and don't want to buy a new bed for each child.
You can alter the height of a variety of cots to suit the changing body of your baby. The adjustable height can be set between 3 and five levels, based on the design. Some cots allow you to take off one side of the bed completely, which is useful as your baby begins to walk or you want to try sleeping with your baby toddler.
Compact cots are usually on wheels or castors, so they can easily be moved between rooms. They can be especially beneficial if your house is small and doesn't have a designated nursery. You can also use them as an infant crib when you plan to spend time away from home with your baby or if they need to be moved between houses of family members during holidays. Some cots are also convertible into a toddler bed or even a sofa. This allows you to sleep beside your child, giving you peace of mind knowing that they are safe and within reach.
Style
The crib is the most important furniture piece you will buy for your baby. It should be sturdy and safe. It must be free of sharp edges protruding from the sides and no areas where a child's head, fingers or arms could become entangled. The cot must also comply with Australian cot standards. It is important to not purchase second-hand cots because these may not meet current safety standards.
Cots are available in a range of styles and colors that complement any decor. They can be adorned with various accessories, including mobiles for cots. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, which will draw your baby's interest and stimulate their development of sensory. They can also help your baby sleep longer and soothe them during their quiet time.
Wicker cots are also popular. This material is reminiscent of simpler times and is ideal for rooms with an organic theme. Its minimalist style makes it an excellent choice for babies of all different ages, and is often cheaper than other types of cots. If you decide to buy a wicker crib make sure it is made from high-quality materials, and that it is in compliance with all safety standards.
You can also find a variety of different shapes and finishes for cots. Some cots come with a built-in storage area. This is a great way to store all the essentials for your baby including nappies, clothing bedding, and other things. Some cots are elevated off of the ground, which makes them clean and protects them from being exposed to dust and other germs.
Some cots can be converted into a toddler's bed which can be used up to the age of 6 years. This feature is particularly useful when you're planning to have more children or to save money by purchasing multiple beds for your growing family. For example the Leander cot that has an extension kit can be transformed into a toddler bed that can last your child up to age 7. This option will save you time and money.
Safety
Choose a sturdy cot made of durable materials when looking for a cot for your nursery. It should have a solid base and sturdy sides, with no gaps between the slats, which could let baby fingers get stuck in them. Also, look for furniture that has non-toxic finishes that won't peel or chip. If you're unsure about the safety of a product be sure to look for certifications that show that it has been tested and meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents choose the Moses basket, crib or cot instead of a traditional bed. They are great for babies as they provide a secure place to sleep in for the baby without having to leave the child alone. If your baby is too large for this type of cot, you can use the top of the cot to move them out of smaller spaces.
To lower the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS) It is important that you follow the guidelines for sleeping. NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and avoiding loose blankets, pillows or toys that can cause suffocation.
Other possible hazards include dressers, bookshelves and other furniture for storage that can tip over if the curious child leans against or climbs them. Make sure that tall pieces are securely anchored to the wall and are regularly examined for stability. Also, keep heavier objects in the lower shelves and drawers to distribute their weight and prevent accidents.
Another safety issue is the presence of choking hazards in a nursery. Many children like to nibble on the cot rail, corners, or slats. You can stay clear of these dangers by purchasing a cot with smooth corners and no protruding edges, or by eliminating these elements when your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
Also, you should avoid placing any wall-mounted clocks or other accessories with long cords close to the cot. If their hands or toes get stuck in the cords, babies and children can be strangled. Set cots in a safe distance from windows with long cords 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 where they spend the majority of their time during their first year. Therefore, it is worth investing in a modern crib that can set the style for your room's decor. There are many options that are available. There are modern cots with sleek lines and sleek designs. They will blend seamlessly with any decor. There are also traditional cots such as metal ones which are ideal for rooms that are decorated in a traditional style.
Wooden cots also have an natural look and can be paired with a variety of nursery decors. They are typically made of birch, maple or beech and are usually varnished to protect them from accidental scratches. They can be costly however, and are not suitable for every budget.
If you're looking to purchase a truly unique baby cot, you should consider purchasing one with curving edges. This will give it a very distinct style that will help it stand out from other cots that are available. They also have more storage space underneath.
A cot can be converted into a toddler or day bed. This is a great option to get the most value of your budget, and ensure that your child’s bed will last for the entire development phase. Some cots have conversion kits, while others can be purchased as a separate item.
When choosing a cot, ensure that it complies with British safety standards. This includes ensuring that the mattress is set properly and there aren't any gaps where your child could fall out of the crib. Remove Cot Bed or decorations that could cause the risk of choking. Also, ensure that the crib's bars aren't too close.
There is a vast range of cots online and in-store at retailers such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. It is recommended to visit a store, as you can view the cots and decide if it is right for your child.