How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots provide quality sleep for your baby and provide you with the much-needed break between feedings, changing nappy and clean-ups. To maximize your baby's rest, check out our Canstar Blue reviews to find the most suitable nursery cots for your child.
Some cots can be converted to an infant bed using kits. They are ideal 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 take into consideration when selecting the best nursery cot or bassinet. It is essential to ensure that the cot you choose is safe and passes all safety tests particularly if you're buying second-hand. You'll want to be sure that the cot is not afflicted from sharp edges or protruding corners and that there aren't tiny gaps that your baby might fall into their fingers, head or arms entangled. It's also crucial to select the cot that is in compliance with Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of your cot will depend on the space available and how long it will be used. Standard cots measure 60cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants and toddlers. Some cots can be converted into a toddler or single bed for children, allowing them to be used for longer. This is a great option if you want to avoid purchasing a new bed each time you have a child.
You can adjust the height of a variety of cots to suit your baby's changing body. cot beds for sale can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels based on the design. Some cots allow you to take off one side of the bed completely, which is useful when your baby starts to walk or you'd like to test co-sleeping with your infant.
Compact cots are usually on wheels or castors, so they can easily be moved between rooms. They are particularly useful if your home is small and doesn't have a designated nursery. You can also use them as an alternative to a crib for travel if you plan to spend time away from home with your child or need to be moved between homes of family members during holidays. Some cots can be converted into a toddler bed or even sofas. This allows your child to sleep with you and gives you peace of mind knowing they're safe and close at hand.
Style
A cot is the centrepiece of your nursery and the most essential piece of furniture that you'll need to buy for your baby. It should be sturdy and safe. It must be free of sharp protruding edges and have no places where children's head, fingers or arms could become entangled. A cot should also be in compliance with Australian cot standards. Avoid buying second-hand cots since they might not meet current safety standards.
Cots come in a variety of styles and colours to fit any style. You can decorate them with a range of accessories, including the cot-mobile. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention and stimulating their sensory development. They can also help soothe your infant during soothing sessions and help them to sleep better.
Wicker cots are also very popular. This material is reminiscent of simpler times and is perfect for a room with an earthy theme. Its simple design makes this cot a great option for children of any age, and is often cheaper than alternative types of cots. If you choose to purchase a wicker crib, be sure it's made of top-quality materials and that it meets all safety standards.
There are also cots in different shapes and finishes. Some cots have a built-in space for storage. This is a great way to store all your baby's necessities, such as diapers, clothing bedding, toys and more. Some cots are elevated off the ground, which keeps them cleaner and prevents them from being exposed dust and other germs.
Some cots can be transformed into a toddler's bed which can be used up to the age of 6 years. This feature is especially useful for families planning to have more children or to save money on purchasing more beds for your growing family. The Leander crib can be transformed to a toddler bed, which will last until they reach the age of 7. This option can save you lots of time and money in the long term.
Safety
When shopping for a nursery cot select one that is made of durable materials. It should have a sturdy base and solid sides with no gaps that can allow fingers to become caught in the slats. Make sure the furniture has non-toxic finishes that don't peel or chip. If you're unsure about the safety of an item check for certifications that demonstrate that it has been tested and that it meets all regulations applicable to it.
Some parents prefer the Moses basket, crib or cot instead of a traditional bed. These are perfect for babies because they provide an ideal place for babies to sleep, without having to leave them alone. If your baby grows too big for this item, you can use the top of the cot to move them out of smaller spaces.
To reduce the risk for Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS), it is crucial to adhere to the sleep guidelines. NHS UK recommends using a firm mattress and avoiding loose blankets, pillows and toys that could cause suffocation.
Other possible hazards include bookshelves, dressers and other furniture for storage that could tip over when the curious child leans against or climbs them. Be sure to check the stability of any large pieces and anchor them securely to the wall. Keep heavier items at on the bottom of drawers and shelves to spread the weight out and prevent injuries.
Another safety issue is the danger of choking in a nursery. Many children enjoy nibbling on corners, slats or other components of the cot rail. You can prevent these risks by purchasing a cot with round 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 clocks or wall-mounted accessories with long cords close to the cot. Children and babies are at risk of strangulation if they are able to get their feet or hands stuck in the cords. Also, make sure that cots are kept away from windows where blinds or curtains have long cords that can cause a fall.
Originality
One of the most important elements in a nursery for babies is their bed, as it will be where they spend the majority of their time during their first years. Therefore, it is worth investing in a modern crib that can set the style for your room's decor. There are many options on the market. These include contemporary cots that feature sleek lines and clean lines. They can be incorporated seamlessly in any space. There are also more traditional cots like metal ones, which are ideal for rooms decorated with vintage-inspired styles.
Wooden cots are popular because they have an organic look that will complement an array of nursery decors. They are usually made of beech, maple, or birch and are usually coated with varnish to guard against accidental scratches. They can be costly however, which means they 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 the cot a distinctive aesthetic that makes it stand out among other cots. These cots also offer additional storage space underneath.
Another option is to buy an upholstered cot that can be transformed into a toddler bed and a day bed. This is a great way to get more value for your money and it will ensure that your child's bed will last every stage of growth. Some cots come with conversion kits, while others can be purchased as a separate item.
When selecting a cot, make sure that it meets British safety standards. This includes ensuring that the mattress is set properly and there are no gaps where your child may fall out of the crib. Also, you should remove any decorations or stickers that could pose an choking hazard, and make sure that the bars aren't close together.
You can find a wide selection of cots on the internet and in-store at stores like Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. Always visit a store, as you can see the cots and decide which one is best for your child.