Cot Safety 101: What you need to know

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to baby cots! As a parent-to-be or a seasoned caregiver, choosing the right cot for your little one can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's hard to know where to start. In this blog, we'll provide you with essential information, expert tips, and valuable insights to help you navigate the world of baby cots. From safety standards and regulations to style and functionality, we'll cover it all. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to choose the best cot for your baby's needs, and for your own peace of mind.

Do I need to spend a lot on a cot? 

Your baby will use a cot for a long time, generally approximately 3 years. Therefore, it is important to invest in one that is well made and safe. 

Ensure that the cot you buy is sturdy. Remember your child is going to get bigger and move around in its cot a lot. 

What do I need to consider when buying a cot? 

All cots sold in Australia offer two levels for the mattress base. A higher base for when your baby is newborn. This will make lifting your baby in and out of the cot much easier on your back. The base is then lowered when your baby can pull himself up and sit unaided. 

Ensure that the manufacturer's instructions are followed strictly when assembling the cot. Be aware of checking for safety warnings - such as using the correct sized mattress. 

A drop side makes it easier to lift the baby in and out of the cot.  

Main design features of the Australian Standard are:  

• Spaces between vertical bars (50mm-95mm) 

• Distances from top of mattress to top of cot side (no less than 600 mm) 

• Space between bottom rail of dropside and mattress base (250 mm) 

• Space between mattress and cot sides or ends (less than 20 mm) 

• No limb entrapment spaces (spaces of 30-50 mm) 

• Secure locking mechanism on the dropsied 

• Only two legs with castors - if four legs are fitted with castors at least two to have brakes 

• No horizontal bars, transfers, or beading (choking hazard) 

• Snug fitting mattress 

• Manufacturing batch numbers to be included on product for easy identification and model currency. 

What are the choices in cots? 

Standard Cot 

2 in one cot – A cot that converts into junior bed  

3 in one cot – A cot that converts into a junior bed and lounge or sofa  

What is a Cot? 

If you are looking for a sleep environment that will suit your baby for the first 2 – 3 years, than a cot will meet your needs. 

If you would like to get a little more life span out of your cot, then you may like to consider a cot that converts into a junior bed (see cot bed option). 

If you are planning to have two or more children, the cot/bed option may not be of high importance. This will depend on the age gap between children. If the cot gets passed onto the sibling straight away, you may not use the junior bed option until your final child uses the cot. 

Is it ok to buy or borrow a second hand cot? 

If you are considering borrowing a second hand cot it is important that older cots may not meet current safety standards. Check to make sure it meets all current standards. It is also recommended to purchase a new mattress.

Why consider a cot bed? 

A cot bed offers a longer usage span to your cot. As once your child has outgrown the cot it can be converted into a junior bed. Having a cot that converts into a junior bed can make transition from cot to junior bed smooth, as your child is used to the same sleeping equipment. 

Some cots that offer a junior bed conversion are larger in size than a standard cot. If space is not an issue this gives your child more room to move and grow, plus the cot will last a little longer. 

Other convertible cots also offer the conversion into a lounge/sofa. Some cots require an extra kit or mattress to convert into a toddler bed so check out the cost and any additions required before you make your decision. 

What do I need to consider when choosing a cot mattress? 

When deciding on a cot for your baby you will also need to buy a mattress for the cot. Generally, cots do not include a mattress in the price. Keep this in mind when budgeting. 

The size and firmness of the mattress is the major safety concern with all cots and bassinets. There have been deaths of infants caused by suffocation, where the baby's head has become wedged between the cot mattress and the cot side. If the mattress is too short or narrow, a baby can slide down the gaps between the mattress and the base and suffocate, or their limbs or fingers can be caught. If a mattress is too thick, the height can make it easier for a toddler to climb up and fall out - particularly when adjustable cot bases are placed in the higher position.  

It is important that you buy a new mattress for each new child using the cot. 

Remember to remove the plastic wrapping from the mattress, as this can contribute as a suffocation hazard. Use a mattress protector to protect the mattress from liquids. Ensure that the waterproof mattress protector is strong and a tight fit. 

Red Nose Australia recommends a firm mattress, a mattress that is the right size for the cot and is clean. 

Ensure there is no more than a 20mm gap between the mattress and the cot sides and ends. 

What other Sleeping options are there for a newborn? 

The type of bed you choose for your newborn may depend on budget and the space you have. Some parents like to use a bassinet or co-sleeper for the first few months, as this allows your baby to sleep in the same room as you, and their bed can be moved around the house so that it can be near you thought the day.  

What is a Bassinet?  

A bassinet is a small baby bed, which is normally on a stand. A bassinet is convenient because it doesn’t take up a lot of space and it can be moved from room to room throughout the day and your baby can stay near you. 

A bassinet has a short usage span, and depending on the size of the bassinet and your baby may only last a few months. 

If you intend on using a bassinet for subsequent children, consider if you have sufficient storage space. 

If you borrow a bassinet from a friend or you use the same bassinet for subsequent children, remember it is recommended that you buy a new mattress for each new baby. This ensures that it is clean and firm. Ensure that you buy a mattress that fits the bassinet exactly. Always remove plastic wrapping from a new mattress before use. 

 
What is a Co-sleeper? 

A co-sleeper is usually larger than a bassinet and can attach to your bed. It may last slightly longer than a bassinet depending on how early your baby begins to become mobile or sit up. Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations when using a co-sleeper. 

Do I need a travel cot (Portable cot)? 

Consider your lifestyle needs when deciding if you need a travel cot for your child. If you visit family and friends, travel a lot or your child will stay at granny and grandpas, then a travel cot will be a handy item. 

There is a voluntary standard for travel cots (not mandatory). The Australian safety code is AS/NZS 2195:2010. If a travel cot meets this standard, then it should include a sticker or label displaying the Australian code. 

When using a travel cot always use the mattress provided, never add a foam or homemade mattress as your baby can get trapped face down in the gaps created between the mattress and the cot wall