How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots provide quality sleep for your little one and offer you much needed respite between nappy changes, feeds and clean-ups. To maximize your baby's sleeping time take a look at our Canstar Blue reviews to find the best nursery cots for your baby.
Some cots can be converted to an infant bed using the help of a kit. 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. If you are buying second-hand, it is essential that the cot or bassinet you choose is safe and passes all safety tests. You'll need to ensure that the cot is free of sharp edges or protruding corners and that there aren't small gaps where your baby might be able to get their head, fingers, or arms trapped. It is also important to select an cot that is in compliance with Australian standards.
The size of your cot will be contingent on the space available and the length for which it will be used. Standard cots measure 60 cm by 120 cm and are suitable for infants and toddlers. However some cots are made to convert into a toddler bed or a children's single bed, so they can be used for a longer period of time. This is a great option when you have more than one child and you don't want to purchase a new bed for each child.
You can alter the height of a variety of cots to fit the body changes of your baby. They 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 helpful as your baby begins to walk or you'd like to try co-sleeping with your infant.
Small cots are usually mounted on wheels or castors so they are able to be moved easily between rooms. These are useful for those who have an apartment that is small and do not have a nursery. You can also use them as an infant crib when you are planning to spend time away from your home with your baby or if they need to be transferred between houses of family members during holidays. Some cots are also convertible into a small toddler bed or even a sofa. This allows you to sleep with your child, providing peace of mind knowing that they are safe and close.
Style
A cot is the centerpiece of your nursery and the most essential piece of furniture that you'll need to buy for your baby. It must be strong and secure. It should not have sharp edges that protrude out and no spaces where a child's arms, fingers, or head could get entangled. A cot should also be in compliance with Australian cot standards. It's important that you don't purchase second-hand cots because they might not meet current safety standards.
Cots come in a variety of styles and colors that fit into any decor. You can decorate them with a range of accessories, including the cot-mobile. These mobiles can bring different colors and patterns to the crib, which will capture your infant's attention and stimulate their sensory development. They can also help soothe your baby during calm times and aid in a better sleep.
Another style that is popular is an Wicker coffin. This material is reminiscent of simpler times and is ideal for a room with an organic theme. Its simple design makes it a great choice for babies of all ages, and it is typically less expensive than other types of cots. However, if you choose to purchase a wicker cot make sure it is crafted from high-quality materials and is in compliance with all applicable safety standards.
There are also cots available in various shapes and styles. Some cots have a built-in storage area. This is a great way to store all your baby's paraphernalia such as nappies, bedding, clothing and other essentials. Some cots come with legs that lift them off the ground, which helps to keep them clean and also prevents them from being exposed to germs and dust.
Some cots can be converted into a bed for toddlers that can be used until the age of six years. This feature is especially useful when you are planning to have more children or you want to save money by purchasing multiple beds for a growing family. The Leander cot can be changed to a toddler bed, which will last until they reach age 7. This option will save your time and money.
Safety
When you are looking for a cot for your nursery, select one that is made of sturdy materials. It should have a sturdy base and sturdy sides, with no gaps between the slats that might let baby fingers get stuck. Also, check for furniture with nontoxic finishes that won't peel or chip. If you're not sure about the safety of an item check for certifications that prove the item has been vetted and meets all regulations applicable to it.
Some parents choose the Moses basket, crib or cot instead of a traditional bed. These are ideal for newborns because they provide an ideal place for babies to sleep without having to leave them alone. If your baby is growing too large for these items, you can use an cot top change to help them transition from these smaller spaces.
To lower the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS), it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines for sleeping. NHS UK recommends using a firm mattress and eliminating pillows, blankets or toys which could lead to suffocation.
Other possible hazards include dressers, bookshelves and other furniture for storage that can tip over when a curious child leans on or climbs on them. Be sure that all large pieces are securely fixed to the wall and regularly checked for stability. Also, keep heavier items on the bottom of drawers and shelves to redistribute their weight and prevent accidents.
Choking hazards are a different security concern in a nursery. Many children like to nibble on the cot rails corners, slats, or corners. You can stay clear of these dangers by buying a cot that has round corners and no edges that protrude, or by eliminating these elements when your child is old enough to stand on their own.
It is also recommended to avoid placing any wall-mounted or clocks with long cords near the cot. If their toes or hands are stuck in the cords, children and infants could be strangled. Set cots in a safe distance from windows with long cords on curtains or blinds that could cause the possibility of falling.
Originality
The bed is among the most important aspects of a baby's room, since it is where they'll spend the majority of their first year. It is therefore worth investing in a stylish crib that sets the style for your room's decor. There are many options available on the market, including modern cots that have sleek lines and sleek designs that seamlessly blend into any space. There are also more traditional cots like metal ones, which are ideal for rooms decorated with vintage-inspired styles.
Wooden cots also have a very natural look and can be paired with various nursery decors. They are often made from beech, maple, or birch and are typically varnished to protect them from accidental scratches. However they can be costly and not suitable for all budgets.
If you're looking to purchase a truly unique baby cot, consider buying one with curves on the edges. This will give it a distinctive aesthetic that will help it stand out from other cots that are available. These cots are also renowned for their practicality, because they have more space under the cot to store things.
A cot can be turned into a toddler bed and a daybed. This is a great method 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 and others can be purchased separately.
When you are choosing a cot ensure that it is in compliance with British safety standards. It is essential to ensure that the mattress fits correctly and that there aren't any gaps that could let your child escape from the crib. Remove any stickers or other decorations that could create the risk of choking. Also, check that the bars of the crib aren't too close.
There is a vast variety of cots online and in-store at stores like Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. Always visit a store, as you can view the cots, and decide whether it is suitable for your child.