Baby Cots

In the first year your bub will spend most of its time in the cot, so it’s important to choose a suitable quality item. See the following checklist as a guide when choosing a cot:

• A sparse cot is safest – nothing to smother or overheat your baby, nothing to climb on or tangle with.
• There should be a minimum of 600mm from the base of the mattress to the top of the cot.
• The space between the bars or panels should be 50mm-85mm as bigger gaps can trap a baby’s head.
• The mattress needs to be well fitted and the space between the cot sides and the mattress should not be more than 25mm.
• Be aware of holes or spaces where your baby’s arms, legs, head and fingers could become trapped.
• Try to choose a cot that has no more than two legs with castor wheels. Lockable swivel castors make it easier to maneuver the cot but always ensure the wheels are locked when your baby is in the cot.
• Look for fixed-base cots with the lowest possible base. If it has an adjustable base, it’s useful to be able to adjust the mattress base higher when your baby is small and lower as they grow and sit up. It is also good if you are suffering from back problems following the birth.
• If you are after a cot with a drop side mechanism – look for a cot which is easy to operate single-handed. Some models have the added convenience of a drop side that slides completely out of the way, i.e. right under the cot which allows you to position the cot right up against the edge of your bed.

When considering second-hand cots

• Check that the cot meets current safety standards and that it has not been part of a product recall.
• Keep in mind that re-assembling old cots can lead to safety issues, and cot hardware can wear out over time.

Cot beds

Some parents prefer to invest in a cot bed. These are usually larger than cots with the advantage of being able to convert into a toddler bed. Although these generally cost more, such bedding systems are designed to accommodate a growing child and can be a good investment as it will last your child after they have outgrown the cot.

Change table or mat

As long as you have somewhere that is safe and comfortable for changing your baby, having a change table or not is a personal preference. Many mothers choose to use cushioned, waterproof change mats which can be used on top of the change table or used in other areas of the house. For those who suffer from back pains, having a change table will help minimize strain on your back as you will be changing bubs quite frequently. See the following checklist as a guide:

• Ensure the surface you are changing your baby on is stable and secure.
• The mat should have raised sides of at least 100mm to prevent your baby from rolling.
• Make sure sharp objects are not within easy reach of your baby.
• Ensure the mat is not near any power outlets, and that your baby cannot easily reach any electrical equipment.
• Ensure your baby cannot become entangled in any curtain or blind cords.
• Never leave your baby alone on a change table or raised surface for any length of time. Serious injury could result from a fall. Also don’t leave your toddler alone with your baby when bub is on a high surface as they may accidentally pull or push them off.

When choosing a change table

• Check that it has roll-off protection, such as a child safety harness and raised edges. Change tables should have ends and sides that are raised at least 100mm to prevent your baby from falling.
• All edges should be smooth and the change table must be sturdy.
• It should have no gaps that could injure bub’s fingers or toes.
• Ensure that the change table you choose is at an ideal height to minimize on back problems which can be caused by leaning over frequently to change the baby.
• To add comfort to the baby it should have a padded mat. Choose a mat in a size that is recommended by the change table manufacturer.
• Test to see if the change table is sturdy by giving is a light shake and choose the one that wobbles the least.
• Change tables with wheels are handy if you require it to be moved from room to room. Make sure the wheels have lockable brakes for when you are using it or when it is parked.

When using a change table

• Have everything you need to change the baby close at hand. Keep baby essentials within easy reach for your convenience.
• Never leave the baby alone – be sure to supervise your baby and keep one hand on bub at all times. Ignore interruptions or take bub with you if you have to leave the room.
• Use a safety harness at all times.
• If a taller change table suits your height, secure it to the wall to minimize the risk of it tipping.
• Most change tables provide storage space for regularly used items. Maintaining a tidy organised area creates a safer place for you and your baby.

Some changing units can be adapted into useful chests of drawers by simply removing the guard rail on the top of the unit – and so forth to prolong its life through your child’s early years.

Setting up a baby’s nursery can be an expensive exercise. Consider how long you will really use the nursery furniture and accessories. If you think they’ll be in storage in a few years that may help you cut pricier items from your list of must-haves.

Do you know that an average baby will need 1057 nappy changes in the first 6 months? Get exclusive promotions and free diaper samples by joining the Huggies Club now!

The information published herein is intended and strictly only for informational, educational, purposes and the same shall not be misconstrued as medical advice. If you are worried about your own health, or your child’s well being, seek immediate medical advice. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website. Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries assumes no liability for the interpretation and/or use of the information contained in this article. Further, while due care and caution has been taken to ensure that the content here is free from mistakes or omissions, Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information here, and to the extent permitted by law, Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries do not accept any liability or responsibility for claims, errors or omissions.