How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots offer a restful and comfortable sleep for your baby and provide you with the much-needed break between feedings, nappy changes and cleaning up. To get the most out of your baby's sleeping time take a look at our Canstar Blue reviews to find the best nursery cots for your little one.
Some cribs can be made into an infant bed using a kit. They are perfect parents who wish to avoid the expense of a new bed after the baby is old enough.
Size
There are a variety of things to consider when choosing the ideal nursery cot or bassinet. If you are buying 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 isn't splintered of sharp edges or protruding corners, and that there are no tiny gaps in which your child might fall into their fingers, head, or arms caught. It's also essential to choose the cot that is in compliance with Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of your cot will be contingent on the space you have and the length it will be used. Standard cots measure 60 cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants or toddlers. Some cots can be transformed into a single or toddler bed for children and can be used for longer. This is a great choice for families with more than one child and you do not want to purchase an entirely new bed for each child.
You can alter the height of many cots to fit the body changes of your baby. The adjustable height can be set from 3 to five levels, based on the design. Some cots permit you to take off one side of the bed completely which can be useful when your baby starts to walk or you want to try co-sleeping with your little toddler.
Compact cots usually have castors or wheels that enable them to easily move between rooms. They are great for those who have a small house and don't 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 need to be transported between houses of family members during holidays. Some cots can also be converted into a tiny toddler bed or even sofas. This allows you to sleep beside your child, providing peace-of-mind that they are safe and within reach.
Style
A cot is the focal point of your nursery and the most essential piece of furniture that you'll need to purchase for your baby. It should be strong and secure. It shouldn't contain sharp edges or spaces that children can get their hands, head or arms caught. A cot should also be in compliance with Australian cot standards. It is important to not purchase second-hand cots because they might not meet current safety standards.
Cots are available in a range of styles and colors that complement any decor. They can also be decorated with many accessories, such as a cot mobile. These mobiles add contrasting colours and patterns to the crib, attracting your baby's attention as well as stimulating their sensory development. They can also help soothe your infant during soothing sessions and help them sleep longer.
Wicker cots are also very popular. This material evokes memories of simpler times, and is perfect for a natural-themed room. Its simple design makes this cot an excellent option for children of any age and is typically less expensive than other types of cots. However, if you choose to purchase a wicker crib make sure it is crafted from high-quality materials and meets all applicable safety standards.
There are also a variety of different designs and colors for cots. Some cots have a built-in space for storage. This is a convenient method to keep all the baby's items such as bedding, nappies, clothes and other essentials. Some cots are elevated from the ground, which keeps them cleaner and prevents them from being contaminated by dust and other germs.
Some cots can transform into a toddler bed, that can be used until your child is around 6 years old. This feature is especially useful when you're planning to have more kids or to save money on purchasing more beds for your growing family. The Leander cot can be converted into a toddler bed which will last your child until the age of 7. This option will save you time and money.
Safety
Select a sturdy cot made 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 cause fingers to get stuck in the slats. Also, check for furniture with non-toxic finishes that won't peel or chip. If you're uncertain about the safety of a product check for certifications that show the item has been tested and meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents prefer the Moses basket or a crib instead of a traditional bed. They are ideal for infants as they provide a safe place to sleep in for the baby without having to leave the child alone. However, if your baby is growing too large for these items it is possible to use the top of a cot to help them transition from these smaller spaces.
In addition to ensuring that your child's cot is secure It is also important to follow the guidelines for sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). NHS UK recommends using a firm mattress and avoid using pillows, blankets, toys or bumpers that could cause the suffocation of your child.
Bookshelves, dressers and other storage furniture could be a danger in the event that a curious child climbs or leans against them. Make sure that tall pieces are securely anchored to the wall and frequently checked for stability. Keep heavier objects at the on the bottom of drawers and shelves to distribute the weight and prevent injuries.
Choking hazards are another safety concern in the nursery. Many children love nibbling on corners, slats or other components of the rails of the cot. You can avoid these dangers by choosing a cot which has rounded corners and no protruding edge, or by removing the elements when your child is old enough and able to stand on their own.
Additionally it is recommended to avoid using any wall-mounted decorative accessories or clocks with long cords near the cot. Children and babies are at risk of strangulation if have their feet or hands stuck in the cords. Position cots far away from windows with long cords on curtains or blinds that could lead to a fall.
Originality
The bed is among the most important aspects of a baby's bedroom, as this is where they will spend the majority of their year. This is why it is important to invest in a chic crib that will establish the tone for the rest of the room's decor. There are many options available on the market, including contemporary cots that have sleek designs and clean lines that seamlessly blend into any space. There are also traditional cots such as those made of steel that are ideal for rooms decorated in traditional style.
Wooden cots also have an organic look and will go with many nursery decors. They are typically made from either maple or birch, and are varnished in order to shield them from accidental scratches. However they can be costly and not suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're looking to purchase an incredibly unique baby cot, consider buying one with curves on the edges. This will give the cot an unique look, making it stand out from other cots. These cots are also known for their utility as they offer more clearance beneath to store things.
A cot can be turned into a toddler bed and a daybed. This is a great option to get the most out of your money and ensure that your child’s bed will last through the entire growing stage. Some cots have conversion kits, while others can be purchased separately.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it meets British safety standards. This includes checking that the mattress is set properly and there aren't any gaps that your child can slip out of the crib. Remove any decorations or stickers that could create a choking risk. Also, check that the bars of the crib are not too close.
You can find a large variety of cots online and in stores at stores such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. Always visit a store, as you can view the cots, and decide if it is right for your child.