How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots let your baby sleep comfortably and also give you some time between feedings, changing nappies and cleaning up. Take a look at our Canstar Blue reviews for the most suitable nursery cots to make sure that your child gets the best sleep possible.
Some cots can be transformed into a toddler bed with kits. They are perfect parents who wish to avoid the expense of a new bed after the baby is old enough.
Size
When selecting online cots or nursery cot there are numerous factors to take into consideration. It is crucial to ensure that your choice passes all required safety tests particularly if you're purchasing second-hand. You'll want to ensure that the cot is free from sharp edges or protruding corners and that there aren't small gaps where your baby might get their fingers, head, or arms entangled. 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 available and how long it will be used. Most standard cots are about 60 cm in size, and 120 cm wide, which is suitable for infants and toddlers. Some cots can be transformed into a single or toddler bed for children, allowing them to be used for longer. This is a great option for families with more than one child and you don't want to purchase a new bed for each child.
Many cots come with adjustable height settings so you can alter the mattress to accommodate your baby's growing body. The adjustable height can be set between 3 and 5 levels, depending on the design. Some cots permit the removal of one side of the bed completely, which is helpful when your baby starts to walk, or you'd like to test co-sleeping with your little nipper.
Compact cots are usually on wheels or castors, so they can easily be moved between rooms. They can be especially useful in homes that are small and doesn't have a dedicated nursery. They can also be used as a travel cot when you plan to go out of the house with your child or to transfer them between homes of family members to celebrate holidays. Some cots are also convertible into a small toddler bed or even a sofa. This allows your child to sleep alongside you, giving you peace of mind that they are still safe and close at hand.
Style
A cot is the centerpiece of your nursery and the most crucial piece of furniture you'll need to purchase for your baby. It must be sturdy and secure. It shouldn't have sharp edges or spaces where children could get their fingers, head or arms caught. Also, a cot should be in conformity with Australian standards for cots. Avoid buying second-hand cots since they might not meet the current safety standards.
Cots come in a wide range of styles and colours to match any decor. You can embellish them with a range of accessories such as mobiles for cots. These mobiles bring contrasting colors and patterns to the crib, drawing your baby's attention and stimulating sensory development. They can aid your baby to sleep more comfortably and help them relax during soothing sessions.
Wicker cots are also very popular. It is a material that brings back memories of simpler times, and is perfect for a natural-themed room. Its simple design makes this cot a fantastic option for children of any age and is typically less expensive than other types of cots. However, if you choose to purchase a wicker cot ensure that it is crafted from high-quality materials and complies with all applicable safety standards.
You can also find various designs and colors for cots. For instance, some come with a built-in storage space. This is a great option to store all the essentials for your baby like nappies, clothing bedding, and other things. Some cots have legs that lift them off the floor, which can help to keep them clean and protect them from being exposed to dust and other germs.
Some cots can convert into a toddler bed, which can be used until your child is around 6 years old. This feature is particularly useful for families planning to have more children or to save money by purchasing multiple beds for your growing family. cots offers can be changed to a toddler bed which will last until they reach age 7. This will save your time and money.
Safety

Choose a sturdy cot made of durable materials when shopping for a nursery cot. 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 with nontoxic finishes that don't chip or peel. If you're uncertain about the safety of a product, look for certifications that prove the item has been tested and that it meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents prefer a Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. These are perfect for newborns as they provide a safe place to sleep for the baby without leaving the child alone. If your baby gets too large for this type of cot it is possible to use the top of the cot to help them move out of smaller spaces.
To lower the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS), it is essential to follow the guidelines for sleeping. NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and avoiding loose blankets, pillows or toys that could cause suffocation.
Bookshelves, dressers, and other storage furniture could be a danger when a curious child climbs or leans on them. Be sure that all high-heeled pieces are securely attached to the wall and are regularly examined for stability. Also, place heavier items on the bottom of drawers and shelves to redistribute their weight to prevent accidents.
Another safety issue is the presence of choking hazards in the nursery. Many children enjoy nibbling on corners, slats or other elements of the rails of the cot. You can prevent these risks by choosing a cot with smooth corners and edges that are not protruding or by eliminating these elements when your child is old enough to stand up on their own.
Also, you should avoid placing any clocks or wall-mounted accessories with long cords near the cot. Babies and children are at risk of strangulation if they get their hands or feet trapped in the cords. Place cots away from windows with long cords on blinds or curtains that could cause an accident.
Originality
The bed is one of the most important parts of a baby's bedroom, since it is where they'll spend the majority of their first year. Therefore, it is worth investing in a stylish crib that will set the mood for your room's decor. There are numerous options on the market, including modern cots that have modern designs and clean lines that seamlessly blend into any space. There are also traditional cots, like metal ones, which are great for rooms that are decorated in classic styles.
Wooden cots are popular due to their organic look that will complement many different nursery decors. They are typically made of either maple or birch, and are then varnished to shield them from accidental scratches. However, they can be expensive and not suitable for all budgets.
If you're in search of a baby cot that's unique, consider one with curved corners. This will give the cot an unique look that makes it stand out from other cots. They also provide more storage space beneath.
Another option is to purchase an upholstered cot that can be converted into a toddler bed or a day bed. This is a great way to maximize the value of your money and will ensure that your child's bed will be able to last through all their developmental stages. Some cots are equipped with conversion kits, while others can be purchased as a separate item.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it meets British safety regulations. This includes making sure that the mattress is set properly and there aren't any gaps where your child may fall out of the crib. You should also take off any stickers or decorations that could be dangerous to your child's health and ensure that the bars aren't close to each other.
You can find a large selection of cots on the internet and in stores at stores such as Dunelm, Ikea and John Lewis. You should always shop in store, as you can see the cots and determine whether it is suitable for your child.