How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots are a great place to sleep for your baby and provide you with the much-needed break between feedings, nappy changes and clean-ups. To make the most of your baby's sleeping time, check out our Canstar Blue reviews to find the top cots for nursery for your child.
Some cribs are designed to adapt to the needs of your child and can be made into a toddler bed by using kits. They are perfect for parents who want to avoid the expense of a new bed after the baby is old enough.
Size
There are a variety of aspects to take into account when choosing the right nursery cot or bassinet. It is essential to make sure that the one you select is safe and passes all safety tests, especially if you're buying second-hand. You'll need to ensure that the cot is not afflicted from sharp edges or protruding corners, and that there are no small gaps where your baby might get their fingers, head, or arms caught. It is also important to select the cot that meets Australian standards.
The size of the cot you select will be determined by the size of your space and how long you plan to keep it in use. Standard cots measure 60cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants or toddlers. Some cots are able to be converted into a toddler or single bed for children which allows them to be used longer. This is a great choice for families with more than one child and you do not want to purchase a new bed for each child.
You can adjust the height of many cots to suit the changing body of your baby. These can be adjusted from 3 to 5 levels, depending on the design. Some cots allow you to take off the entire side of the bed, which can be helpful when your baby is beginning to walk, or if you'd like to share a bed with your little one.
Small cots are usually equipped with wheels or castors to enable them to easily move between rooms. They are a great option for those who have a small house and don't have a nursery. You can also use them as an infant crib when you are planning to spend time away from home with your baby or if they need to be moved between family members' houses to celebrate holidays. Some cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or a sofa. This allows your child to sleep alongside you and gives you peace of mind knowing that they are secure and in your reach.
Style
A cot is the centerpiece of your nursery. It is the most important piece of furniture you'll need to purchase for your baby. It must be sturdy and safe. It should not have sharp edges protruding from the sides and no places where children's arms, fingers or head could become entangled. Also, a cot should be in compliance with Australian standards for cots. Avoid purchasing second-hand cots since they might not meet current safety standards.
Cots are available in a variety of styles and colours to suit any decor. They can be adorned with a variety of accessories, like mobiles for cots. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention as well as stimulating 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 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 babies of any age and is usually less expensive than other cots. If you do decide to buy a wicker cot, be sure that it is made of high-quality materials and is in compliance with all safety standards applicable to it.
There are also cots in various shapes and styles. Some cots are equipped with a storage area. This is a convenient way to keep all the baby's items, including bedding, nappies, clothes and other essentials. Some cots are elevated from the ground, which keeps them clean and protects them from being exposed to dust and other germs.
Some cots can transform into a toddler bed, which can be used up until your baby is approximately six years old. This feature is particularly useful for families planning to have more children or to save money on buying multiple beds for your growing family. The Leander crib can be transformed into a toddler bed that will last your child until they reach the age of 7. This option could save you lots of time and money in the long term.
Safety
When you are looking for a nursery cot pick one that is constructed from durable materials. It should have a sturdy base and solid sides with no gaps that could cause fingers to be stuck in the slats. Also, make sure you choose furniture that has non-toxic finishes that won't chip or peel. If you are uncertain about the security of a product, seek out certifications that prove it has been tested and meets all relevant regulations.
Some parents opt for a Moses basket, crib or cot instead of a traditional bed. These are perfect for babies, as they offer the baby with a safe place to sleep and not have to leave them alone. If your baby is getting too large for these items it is possible to use a cot top change to transition them from smaller rooms.
In addition to ensuring that your child's crib is safe and secure, it is essential to follow sleep guidelines to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to avoid pillows, blankets or toys that could cause suffocation.
Other potential hazards include bookshelves, dressers, and other furniture for storage that could tip over when the curious child leans against or climbs up on them. Be sure to check the stability of any tall piece and secure them to the wall. Keep heavier items at bottom of shelves and drawers to redistribute the weight and avoid accidents.
Another safety concern is the presence of choking hazards in a nursery. Many children love to nibble on the cot rails, corners, or slats. You can prevent these risks by buying a cot that has round corners and no protruding edges or by taking them off once your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
In addition, you should avoid using any wall-mounted ornaments or clocks with long cords close to the cot. Babies and children are at risk of strangulation when they have their feet or hands trapped in the cords. Also, make sure that cots are kept away from windows where blinds or curtains have cords that are long enough to cause the possibility of falling.
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. It is therefore worth investing in a chic crib that can set the tone for your room's décor. There are many options on the market. They include modern cots with sleek designs and clean-lined lines. They will blend seamlessly in any space. There are also traditional cots, like metal ones, which are ideal for rooms decorated with vintage-inspired styles.
Wooden cribs also have a more organic look and will go with various nursery decors. They are often made from birch, maple or beech and are usually coated with varnish to guard against accidental scratches. However, they can be expensive and not suitable for all budgets.
If you're looking to purchase an incredibly unique baby cot, you should consider purchasing one with curves on the edges. This gives it a distinct style that will help it stand apart from other cots that are available. These cots also offer additional storage space underneath.
A cot can be turned into a toddler and day bed. This is a great way to get more value for your money and it will ensure that your child's bed will be able to last through every stage of growth. Some cots are equipped with conversion kits, while others can be purchased separately.
When you are choosing a cot make sure that it meets British safety standards. It is crucial to ensure that the mattress is in good shape and there are no gaps that could let your child escape from the crib. Remove any decorations or stickers which could pose the risk of choking. Also, check that the bars of the crib are not too close.
You can find a large selection of cots on the internet and in-store at stores such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. Always go to mini cotbed to shop, so that you can see the cots and determine which one is best for your child.