Cots
A Guide to Choosing the Right Cot
Cots are an essential piece of nursery furniture for infants and toddlers.
They provide a comfortable and safe sleeping space for little ones, and are available in a variety of styles and designs to suit different needs, budgets and preferences.
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when expecting a “little one” is choosing a cot for your baby. With so many different types of cots available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you and your family.
In this guide, we will provide an overview of the most common types of cots and their features to help you make an informed decision.
Standard Cots
Standard cots are the most common type of cot available and are often referred to as full-size cots.
They typically are rectangular in shape with slatted sides and adjustable mattress heights to accommodate a growing child until the child is ready to move into a “big” bed.
Standard cots come in a range of sizes and styles to fit any budget. Some models can be converted into toddler beds as your child grows.
Bassinets
Bassinets are small, portable cots designed for newborns. They’re typically made of wicker, wood, or fabric and have a compact, oval shape. They are light weight and easily moved from room to room.
Some are designed to incorporate their stand, whilst others have an independent stand making them very portable.
Like cots, they can be very simple whilst others are more upmarket and offer many features including canopies or open weave netting to prevent the baby being bitten by biting insects such as mosquitoes.
Bassinets are a popular choice for parents as they provide the flexibility to have the baby sleep in their room during the first few month.
Co-sleeping Cots
These cots are designed to attach to the side of the parent’s bed. This allow the baby to sleep in close proximity to the parents.
They are a popular choice for parents who want to keep their baby close at night for feeding and comfort.
Convertible Cots
These are multi-functional cots that can be converted into a toddler bed or a daybed as the child grows older. These are a popular choice for parents as it allows the child to adapt to being able get in and out of their bed as they need to rather being confined to a typical cot.
A Convertible cot will save money in the long run as it will suit the needs of your child for a number of years.
Travel or Portable Cots
What Is The Difference Between a Cot and a Crib
Essentially, they are the same thing. In some countries like the United States of America (USA) and Canada beds designed to accommodate an infant and young child are typically called a “Crib”.
Whereas in other parts of the world, particularly in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, the term “cot” is more commonly used to describe a similar product.
The term “cot” can also refer to a portable or travel cot that is designed for easy transportation and storage.
How Do I Know If A Cot Is Safe?
Cots and Cribs typically must comply with the standards of the region that they are being used or sold.
Generally, the cot will have a label firmly secured to it indicating that it complies with the relevant safety requirements. Parents and caregivers should always check for this label before purchasing the item of their choice.
For example, in the United States, cribs must meet the standards outlined in various sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Full-size baby cribs must comply with 16 CFR Part 1219, while non-full-size baby cribs must comply with 16 CFR Part 1220. Bassinets and cradles must comply with 16 CFR Part.
Whereas, in Australia cots must comply with the AS/NZS 2172:2003 standard for household use. This standard sets out safety requirements for cots, including testing procedures, design requirements, and warning labels. There is also a separate standard for folding cots, which specifies safety requirements for design, construction, and testing.
Cots and cribs are designed to keep infants safe and comfortable while they sleep.
Choosing A Cot
Choosing a cot is an important decision for any new parent.
By understanding the different types of cots or crib that are available and their features, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your family.
Whether you choose a standard cot, bassinet, co-sleeper or travel cot, please ensure that you follow the safety standards and manufacturer’s recommendations so that you always provide a safe sleeping environment for your baby or toddler.