How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots can help your baby sleep comfortably and also give you a break between feedings, changing nappies, and cleaning up. To maximize your baby's sleep, check out our Canstar Blue reviews to find the top cots for nursery for your child.
Some cots can be converted to toddler beds with a kit. These are perfect for parents who don't wish to spend money on the purchase of a new bed once their child is old enough.
Size
When selecting the best bassinet or nursery cot, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. It's important to ensure that the cot you choose is safe and passes all safety tests, especially if you're buying second-hand. You'll have to ensure the cot does not have sharp edges or protruding corners and no small gaps which could hold your baby's head, fingers or arms. You should also choose a cot which meets Australian standards.
The size of the cot you select will depend on your space and how long you plan to use it. Standard cots measure 60cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants and toddlers. However, some cots are designed to transform into a toddler bed or children's single bed, meaning they can be used for longer. This is a great option if you have more than one child and don't want to purchase a new bed for each child.
You can adjust the height of many cots to fit the body changes of your baby. These can be adjusted between 3 and 5 levels depending on the design. Some cots permit you to remove one side of the bed completely, which is helpful when your baby is beginning to walk, or you'd like to try sleeping with your baby toddler.
Compact cots are usually with wheels or castors so that they can easily be moved between rooms. These are useful if you have an apartment that is small and do not have a nursery. You can also make them a travel crib if you are planning to spend time away from home with your child or if they need to be moved between houses of family members for holidays. Some cots can be turned into a toddler bed or a sofa. This allows your toddler to sleep alongside you with peace of mind knowing that they are still secure and in your reach.
Style
The crib is the most essential furniture piece you'll purchase for your baby. It must be sturdy and safe. It should not have sharp protruding edges and have no places where children's arms, fingers or head could get entangled. A cot must also meet Australian cot standards. Avoid buying second-hand cots as they may not be in compliance with current safety standards.
Cots come in a variety of styles and colors that match any decor. They can be adorned with various accessories, including mobiles for cots. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, attracting your baby's attention as well as stimulating their sensory development. They can also help your baby sleep more comfortably and help them relax during calm times.
Another popular style is the Wicker the cot. It is a material that brings back memories of simpler times, and it is ideal for a natural-themed room. Its simple design makes this cot an excellent option for babies of any age, and is often cheaper than other types of cots. If you decide to buy a wicker crib, be sure it is made from top-quality materials and that it is in compliance with all safety standards.
There are also many different designs and colors for cots. Some cots are equipped with a storage area. This is a great place to store all of the essentials for your baby like nappies, clothes bedding, and other things. Some cots are elevated off the ground, which makes them clean and protects them from being exposed dust and other bacterial infections.
Some cots can be converted into a bed for toddlers that can be used up to the age of 6 years. This feature is particularly useful if you're planning to have more kids or to save money on buying multiple beds for your growing family. For example, the Leander cot that has an extension kit can be made into a toddler bed that will keep your child for age 7. This option will save you time and money.
Safety
Select a sturdy cot made of durable materials when looking for a crib for your baby's nursery. It should have a sturdy base and solid sides with no gaps that can allow fingers to get caught in the slats. Check for furniture that has nontoxic finishes and doesn't chip or peel. If you're unsure about the quality of a product check for certifications that prove it has been tested and meets all applicable requirements.
Some parents choose to use a Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. These are perfect for newborns because they offer a secure place to sleep for your baby without leaving him alone. If your baby is growing too large for these things you can make use of a cot top change to transition them from smaller rooms.
In addition to making sure that your child's cot is secure, it is important to adhere to the sleep guidelines to reduce the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). NHS UK recommends using a firm mattress and eliminating pillows, blankets or toys that could lead to suffocation.
Other possible hazards include dressers, bookshelves and other furniture for storage that can tip over when the curious child leans against or climbs on them. Make cot sets that high-heeled pieces are securely attached to the wall and are regularly examined for stability. Also, keep heavier objects at the bottom of drawers and shelves to redistribute their weight and prevent accidents.
Choking hazards are a different danger in the nursery. Children love to nibble on slats, corners or other components of the cot rail. You can avoid these dangers by purchasing a cot that has rounded corners and no protruding edge or by removing the elements once your child is old enough and able to stand on their own.
In addition, you should avoid using any wall-mounted decorative items or clocks with long cords near the cot. If their toes or hands are caught in the cords, children and babies could be strangled. 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 babies is their bed, as it will be the place they spend most of their time during their first few years. This is why it's important to invest in a chic cot that can help set the tone for the interior of the room. There are numerous options on the market, including contemporary cots with modern designs and clean lines that seamlessly blend into any space. There are also traditional cots, such as those made of steel that are perfect for rooms that have been decorated with vintage style.
Wooden cots also have an organic appearance and are compatible with various nursery decors. They are typically made of maple or birch and are then varnished to protect them against accidental scratches. They can be expensive however, and aren't suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're in search of a baby cot that is distinctive, look into a cot with curved corners. This will give it a very distinctive aesthetic that will make it stand apart from other cots on the market. They are also known for their practicality, since they provide more space underneath to store things.
A cot can be converted into a toddler and day bed. This is a great way to make the most of your budget, and ensure that your child’s bed will last through the entire growing stage. Some cots are sold with conversion kits while others can be bought separately.
When selecting a cot, make sure it is in compliance with British safety standards. This includes checking that the mattress is placed correctly and that there aren't any gaps where your child can fall out of the crib. You should also take off any decorations or stickers that could be an choking hazard, and make sure that the bars aren't close to each other.
There are a wide range of cots both online and in stores at retailers such as Dunelm Ikea and John Lewis. You should always shop in store, as you can look at the cots, and decide whether it is suitable for your child.