How to Choose the Best Nursery Cots
Cots provide quality sleep for your little one, and give you the much-needed break between feedings, changing nappy and clean-ups. To maximize your baby's rest, check out our Canstar Blue reviews to find the most suitable nursery cots for your little one.
Some cots are designed to adapt to the needs of your child and can be converted into a toddler bed using a kit. They are great for parents who don't want to spend money on the purchase of a new bed once their child is old enough.
Size
When choosing the right bassinet or nursery crib, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. If you're buying second-hand, you must ensure that the bassinet or cot you select has passed all safety tests. You'll need to ensure that the cot is free of sharp edges or protruding corners and that there aren't tiny gaps that your baby could be able to get their head, fingers, or arms trapped. You should also choose the cot that meets Australian standards.
The size of the cot you choose will depend on the space you have and the length you're planning to keep it in use. Most standard cots are about 60 cm x 120 cm and are suitable for toddlers and infants. However certain cots are designed to transform into a toddler bed or children's single bed, so they can be used for a longer period of time. This is an excellent option if you want to avoid purchasing a new bed each time you have a child.
Many cots have adjustable height settings so that you can alter the mattress to fit your baby's growing body. They can be adjusted between 3 and five levels, based on the design. Some cots let you remove the entire side of the bed, which is useful when your baby begins to walk, or if you'd like to share a bed with your child.
Compact cots usually have castors or wheels to allow them to be easily moved between rooms. These can be particularly useful in homes that are small and doesn't have a designated nursery. You can also use them as an alternative to a crib for travel if you are planning to spend time away from home with your baby or need to be transferred between houses of family members during holidays. Some cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or sofa. This allows you to sleep next to your child, giving you security and within reach.
Style
The crib is the most important furniture piece you'll purchase for your baby. It should be sturdy and safe. It should be free of sharp protruding edges and have no spaces where a child's head, fingers or arms could get entangled. Also, a cot should be in conformity with Australian cot standards. Avoid buying great crib -hand cots since they might not meet the current safety standards.
Cots are available in a wide range of styles and colours to fit any style. You can personalize them with a range of accessories including a cot-mobile. These mobiles bring contrasting patterns and colors into the crib, which will pique your child's attention and encourage their development of sensory. They can also soothe your infant during soothing sessions and help them to sleep better.
Another popular design is an Wicker cot. This material evokes memories of simpler times and is ideal for a natural-themed room. Its simple style makes it an excellent choice for children of all ages, and it is often cheaper than other types of cots. If you decide to purchase a wicker cot make sure it is crafted from high-quality materials and is in compliance with all safety standards that are in force.
There are also cots that come in a variety shapes and finishes. For example, some come with a built-in storage space. This is a convenient way to store all your baby's paraphernalia such as bedding, nappies, clothes and other essentials. Some cots are elevated from the ground, which keeps them cleaner and prevents them from being exposed dust and other bacterial infections.
Some cots can be transformed into a toddler's bed that can be used up to the age of 6 years. This is particularly beneficial for families planning to have more children or you want to save money by purchasing multiple beds for your growing family. The Leander cot can be converted to a toddler bed which will last your child until the age of 7. This will save your time and money.
Safety
Select a sturdy cot made of durable materials when shopping for a crib for your baby's nursery. It should have a sturdy base and solid sides, with no gaps between the slats that could allow baby fingers to become stuck in them. Make sure the furniture has non-toxic 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 vetted and meets all applicable regulations.
Some parents opt for the Moses basket or crib instead of a traditional cot. These are ideal for newborns, as they offer a secure place for baby to sleep without having to leave them alone. If your baby gets too big for this cot, you can use the cot top to allow them to leave these smaller spaces.
To decrease the risk of Sudden Infant Demise Syndrome (SIDS), it is crucial to adhere to the guidelines for sleeping. NHS UK recommends a firm mattress, and to avoid pillows, blankets or toys that could lead to suffocation.
Dressers, bookshelves and other furniture for storage are also a risk if an uninitiated child climbs on them or leans against them. Be best rated cribs to check the stability of any tall piece and anchor them securely to the wall. Keep heavier objects at the bottom of shelves and drawers to spread the weight out and prevent accidents.
Another safety issue is the presence of choking hazards in the nursery. Children love to nibble on corners, slats or other components of the rails for the cot. You can stay clear of these hazards by purchasing a cot that has rounded corners without a protruding edges or by removing the components when your child is old and capable of standing on their own.
Also, you should avoid placing any clocks or wall-mounted accessories with long cords close to the cot. If their hands or toes are trapped in the cords children and babies could be strangled. Also, make sure that cots are kept away from windows where blinds or curtains have cords that are long enough to cause a fall.
Originality
One of the most important elements in a nursery for babies is their bed, since it will be where they spend most of their time during their first year. This is why it's worth investing in a stylish cot that will help to establish the tone for the interior of the room. There are numerous options on the market, including contemporary cots with modern designs and clean lines that will blend seamlessly into any space. There are also more traditional cots like metal ones, which are ideal for rooms decorated in classic styles.
Wooden cots are popular because they have an organic design that is a perfect match for an array of nursery decors. They are usually made of birch or maple and are then varnished to protect them against accidental scratches. However they can be costly and not suitable for everyone's budget.
If you're in search of a baby cot that is distinctive, you should consider a cot with curved corners. This will give the cot a distinctive aesthetic that makes it stand out from other cots. These cots are also renowned for their utility since they provide more space beneath to store things.
Another option is to buy a cot that is transformed into a toddler bed or the day bed. This is an excellent way to get the most out of your money and ensure that your child's bed will last throughout the entire growing stage. Some cots have conversion kits, while others can be purchased separately.
When you are choosing a cot ensure that it is in compliance with British safety standards. This includes making sure that the mattress is fitted properly and there aren't any gaps that your child can escape from the crib. Also, you should remove any decorations or stickers that could be dangerous to your child's health and ensure that the bars aren't close together.
You can find a variety of cots both online and in stores at retailers like Dunelm Ikea and John Lewis. It is recommended to purchase from a store because you'll be able see the cots up close and decide if they are appropriate for your child.