Back to Baby Furniture
What are some Important
Considerations when buying a Cot?
- Whether or not the cot will co-ordinate with matching nursery furniture items. It is a good idea to select a cot together with a coordinating range of nursery furniture;
- The size of the cot. You should take the following into account: your baby’s size, growth, and how long you plan to use it. Also think about the size of the nursery where the cot is going as well as where you plan to place the cot in the nursery;
- What kind of mattress to buy. A mattress will not be included with the cot. Several cot manufacturers do also make mattresses if you want to buy a specific brand;
- Consider when you need it. Always allow for shop delivery times as it may happen that the cot you want is out of stock.
What are some Features to look for when buying a
Cot?
A cot will be attractive to look at and fun for your baby if wooden play beads or something similar are set into the respective cot ends. However, these are not essential as toys can easily be attached to a cot.
One or both sides of the cot should be able to drop in order to help you put down and pick up your baby more easily. One or two handed drop is available. Check whether you need one or two hands to operate the mechanism which drops the side of the cot. If possible, go for the one handed designs as you will most likely hold baby in your other arm.
Some cots can be bought with castors, as it facilitates the process of cleaning. If the cot does have castors, ensure that they are lockable, as an energetic baby might make the cot move around.
Look for adjustable levels (usually two or three) where the mattress sits in the cot. Start by placing the mattress at the top for easy access. Lower it as your baby grows finishing on the lowest height when your baby is sitting up or standing.
Once baby is able to stand, he might try out his new teeth on the top of the cot. Plastic strips running along the wooden edge will protect your baby from getting a mouthful of splinters, and the cot from being damaged.