A cot is one of the bigger ticketed items purchased when having a baby.
There are many varieties of cots on the market. Cots are the traditional rectangular type. There are circular cots. There are cots that convert to a toddler bed.
As with anything you will find that there are some cots are more expensive than others. Cost does not necessarily equate to or guarantee quality.
A cot should be sturdy and safe.
It’s important to take the time to find the best cot option for you as the baby will be in it for 2 maybe even 3 years.
You may use the cot for several babies.
You need to be confident you have made an informed decision on which cot to purchase.
Australian Standard
The standard that covers cots is AS/NZS 2172
All cots, new and second hand, are by law required to meet Australian Standards. The standard covers the cots design, construction, labeling and testing.
The standard covers a range of safety requirements such as preventing entrapment.
Second hand and antique cots do not adhere to the standard.
Ensure the cot comes with mandatory certificates and labels.
Two labels of permanently fixed metal plaques on the cot with the words:
Elements when choosing a cot
Spaces between the bars that are 50-95 mm apart.
Check there are no gaps in the cot. Gaps should not measure 30-50 mm apart. This prevents arms or legs getting trapped.
The mattress fits snugly with no gaps wider than your index finger. There is to be less than 2 mm space.
A minimum of 500 mm between the top of the mattress and the top of the cot sides (preferably 600 mm)
Check the drop side mechanisms are secure but at the same time easy enough to use.
The inside of the cot has no horizontal bar that the child can climb on.
If it is a second hand or an older cot make sure it has no toxic surfaces e.g. lead based paint.
Cots purchased prior to 1988 do not comply with these standards.
Check that nothing (like screws, bolts, etc) protrude more than 5 mm.
If it has wheels they need to have a locking mechanism.
Select a fixed based cot.
Most cots have drop down sides. Check before you buy that they are not only in good working order but easy to use.
Choose a firm mattress.
Safety guidelines when using a cot
Make sure that the cot is not near any heaters, power points blind and curtain cords or windows for that matter. This will reduce the risk of falls, burns, and accidents in general.
All new blinds and curtains must adhere to new safety regulations but if you are in a house with existing blinds and curtains then be aware of, and ensure that all cords should positively be out of reach even after a big stretch. The best way to ensure this is to make sure that you secure them well out of reach with a cleat or hook or other safety device.
Regularly check the cot for any wear and tear and if you find a hazard fix it immediately regardless of how small. For example a small spot of peeling paint as this can pose a choking hazard to say the least.
Do not us pillows (including the U shaped pillows) for any child under 2 years of age. Children can become wedged under them, they can roll the wrong way onto them, etc. They pose a very big suffocation hazard.
Do not have a bumper, toys, and cushions in the cot. In fact the less in the cot the safer it is and will help to prevent any suffocation occurring.
Do not use mobiles that have stretch elastic cords. While it may seem out of their reach it still poses a strangulation risk and is best removed to remove the risk.
Do not use electric blankets or hot water bottles with children period but especially in a cot.
Ensure that adjustable level cots are lowered as soon as the child can sit by themselves.
Once a child starts to climb in their cot it is a sign they no longer need a cot. A child needs to move up to a bed.
Always have the drop side up when a child is in the cot.
Renae is the founder & CEO of SK who has been working with families for decades. Her educational background and experience in the Early Childhood sector, as well as Social Science and Community Services has provided a broad base to her approach which focuses on balancing the informative but never at the expense of providing an entertaining read. From working in the private setting, not for profit, as well as government agencies and at times combining her love of travel and work on a global scale, she is also a mum who has experienced the poo blowouts, the shopping tantrums and the sleepless nights.