Household cots

Setting up your baby’s sleeping space is an exciting part of preparing for the arrival of your little one and cots come in many different designs to suit your style. Safety, though, never goes out of style.

What matters more than a gorgeous room is that your baby is as safe as possible in their cot.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to keep your baby safe in their cot.

Choosing a safe household cot 

The best cot for your baby is a safe one. Look for the safety features below when choosing a cot for your baby:

• Look for warnings and safety information that may show compliance with the latest Australian safety standards. If you’re unsure if the product complies or can’t find compliance information, ask the supplier. Safety requirements for cots help prevent injuries from falls, limbs getting trapped, suffocation and strangulation hazards.
• Check for sharp edges or protruding parts that stick out more than 5mm as they can snag on your baby’s skin or clothing.
• If you decide to use, buy or borrow a second-hand cot, ensure the product hasn't been recalled, meets current Australian safety standards, comes with instructions for safe assembly and use and all its parts are in good working order.
• For fixed base cots, the distance from the base to the lowest part of the top of the cot should be at least 60cm when the drop-side is up and 25cm when the drop-side is down.
• For adjustable base cots, the distance between the base and the lowest part of the top of the cot should be at least:
  • 40cm when the base is in the highest position and the drop-side is up
  • 60cm when the base is in the lowest position and the drop-side is up
  • 25cm when the base is in the highest position and the drop-side is down.

Using a cot safely

• The safest place to put your baby to sleep is in their own safe space, such as in a cot which meets mandatory safety requirements. For more information on sleeping practices, visit the Red Nose website.
• Not everyone likes reading instructions, but following them is a must when it comes to cot assembly.
• Set up cots away from blinds, curtain cords, heaters and any electrical appliances to prevent strangulation risks and burns. And, although they may look pretty, keep decorative mobiles out of reach.
• Never attempt to fix or modify old cots as this can weaken certain safety features.
• If the cot has a drop-side, regularly check that it’s working properly. Little fingers can get pinched and falls happen quickly, if the drop side is loose or left down.
• Always have the drop-side up when your baby is sleeping to prevent falls.