How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots allow your baby to sleep well and give you an opportunity to take a break from feedings, changing nappies, 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 top cots for nursery for your little one.
Some cots can be converted to an infant bed using kits. These are great parents who wish to avoid the expense of a new bed after the baby is old enough.
Size
There are many things to take into consideration when selecting the ideal bassinet or nursery cot. It is essential to make sure that the one you select is safe and passes all safety tests particularly if you're buying second-hand. You'll want to ensure that the cot is free from sharp edges or protruding corners, and that there are no tiny gaps that your baby might be able to get their fingers, head or arms caught. It's also crucial to select a cot that meets Australian standards for infant beds.
The size of the cot you choose will be determined by the size of your space and the length of time you intend to keep it in use. Standard cots measure 60cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants or toddlers. However, some cots are designed to convert into a toddler bed or a children's single beds, which means they can be used for a longer period of time. This is a great option when you have more than one child and you do not want to purchase an entirely new bed for each child.
You can alter the height of a variety of cribs to accommodate your baby's changing body. The adjustable height can be set between 3 and 5 levels, based on the design. Some cots also allow you to take off one side of the bed completely which is useful when your baby starts to walk or you want to experiment with co-sleeping with your toddler.
Compact cots usually have wheels or castors to make them easy to move between rooms. They are particularly beneficial if your house is small and doesn't have a dedicated nursery. You can also make them an alternative to a crib for travel if you're planning to travel away from home with your child or if they need to be moved between family members' houses for holidays. Some cots can be converted into a tiny toddler bed or even sofas. This lets you sleep next to your child, giving you security and within reach.
Style
The cot is the most important furniture piece you will buy for your baby. It will need to be sturdy and safe. It should not have sharp edges or spaces where children could get their fingers, head or arms entangled. Also, a cot should be in conformity with Australian cot standards. You should avoid buying second-hand cots since they might not meet the 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, including a cot mobile. These mobiles add contrasting colours and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention as well as stimulating sensory development. They can also soothe your infant during soothing sessions and aid in a better sleep.
Wicker cots are also popular. This material evokes simpler times and is perfect for a room with a natural 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's made of top-quality materials and that it is in compliance with all safety standards.
There are also cots that come in various shapes and styles. Some cots have a built-in storage space. This is a great place to keep all of your baby's essentials including diapers, clothing bedding, toys and more. Some cots have legs that lift them off the floor, which can help to keep them clean and prevent them from being exposed to dust and other germs.
Some cots are made to transform into a toddler bed, which can be used until your baby is approximately 6 years old. This feature is particularly useful if you plan to have more children or you want to save money by purchasing multiple beds for your growing family. The Leander cot can be changed into a toddler bed which will last until they reach the age of 7. This can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Safety
When you are looking for a nursery cot choose one that is sturdily constructed from strong materials. It should have a solid base and sturdy sides with no gaps between slats, which could allow baby fingers to become stuck in them. Also, make sure sale cot choose furniture with nontoxic finishes that don't chip or peel. If you're unsure about the safety of a product, look for certifications that show it has been vetted and meets all regulations applicable to it.
Some parents opt for a Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. They are great for infants because they provide a secure place for baby to sleep without having to leave them alone. However, if your baby is becoming too big for these items you can make use of the top of a cot to help them transition from smaller rooms.
In addition to ensuring that your child's cot is secure It is also important to follow the guidelines for sleeping to decrease the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to avoid pillows, blankets, or toys that could cause suffocation.
Bookshelves, dressers and other storage furniture are also a risk in the event that a curious child climbs or leans against them. Make sure that any high-heeled pieces are securely attached to the wall and regularly assessed for stability. Also, keep heavier objects at the bottom of shelves and drawers to distribute their weight and avoid accidents.
Another security concern is the danger of choking in the nursery. Many children love nibbling on corners, slats and other parts of the cot rail. You can stay clear of these hazards by choosing a cot which has rounded corners without a protruding edges or by removing the elements when your child is old enough and capable of standing on their own.
Additionally, you should avoid using any wall-mounted decorative items or clocks with cords that are long near the cot. Babies and children are at risk of strangulation if they are able to get their feet or hands trapped in these cords. Position cots far away from windows that have long cords on curtains or blinds which could result in a fall.
Originality
One of the most important elements in a nursery for a baby is their bed, as it will be the place they spend the majority of their their first year. This is the reason it is worth investing in a fashionable cot that will help to set the tone for the rest of the decor in 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 metal ones which are ideal for rooms that have been decorated with vintage style.
Wooden cots are popular due to their organic look that will complement a wide range of different nursery decors. They are typically made of beech, maple or birch and are typically coated with varnish to guard against accidental scratches. However, they can be expensive and not suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're looking for a child cot that is truly distinctive, you should consider a cot with curved corners. This gives it a unique design that makes it stand apart from other cots that are available. They also provide additional storage space underneath.
Another option is to buy a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed as well as an adult bed. This is a great way to make the most of your money, and ensure that your child’s bed will last for the entire development phase. Some cots come with conversion kits, while others can be bought separately.
When selecting a cot, make sure that it meets British safety standards. This includes ensuring that the mattress is placed correctly and that there aren't any gaps that your child may slip out of the crib. Also, you should remove any decorations or stickers that could be a choking hazard and check that the bars aren't too close to each other.
You can find a large selection of cots on the internet and in stores at retailers such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. It is recommended to purchase from a store as you will be able to view the cots in person and determine if they're right for your baby.