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Top Tips On Finding The Right Cot For Your Baby
Buying the baby cot in Australia is at the top of the to-do list for expecting parents. But it’s not as easy as dropping into your local shopping centre and picking one up. It takes a fair bit of research to find a cot that ticks all your boxes and will suit your needs longterm.
Here is our ultimate baby cot buying guide with the top considerations so you don’t suffer buyer’s remorse as soon as you bring bub home from hospital.
Ultimate Baby Cot Buying Guide:
Does the baby cot suit your style?
Is the baby cot part of a nursery series?
Does the baby cot sit within your budget?
Does the baby cot take the entire family to assemble?
Does the baby cot grow with bub?
Is the baby cot co-sleeping friendly?
Once you've finished you can head over to some fantastic edits the team has put together everything you need to buy for your nursery room, for a Girl's Baby Room, Boy's Nursery Room, Scandinavian / Minimalism and a Boho Vintage Inspired Baby Edit.
Does it suit our style?
Try to work out a nursery style before you start shopping for cots. Not every cot will suit every nursery look. With such a wide range of brands around, there is a perfect fit for any taste. Go for the Scandinavian look with wooden furniture, a modern look with a metallic cot as your statement piece or choose a minimalist nursery with white furniture. The choice is yours! If you need some help with your style, check out our article on how to style a nursery here.
Is it part of a nursery series?
Why not make your life easy and rely on nursery brands to do the styling for you? Many cots are part of a broader furniture series, like Incy Interiors, that guarantees your nursery is as stylish as can be for your precious bub. We are talking change tables, drawer cabinets and other storage pieces. Why not bundle your nursery furniture and negotiate a discount with the store so you can watch the savings roll in?
Does it sit within our budget?
Agree on your overall budget for all your baby items and then allocate a set amount for your cot. It helps to prepare before you start shopping so you don’t fall in love with a statement piece that’s out of your reach. Another consideration is whether you invest in a cot that grows with baby from newborn until toddler or whether you go for a lower cost cot that isn’t as adaptable but is affordable right now.
How bulky is it?
Work out your room size and have a clear idea of the space you have available for the cot. You’d be surprised by the size variations in cots. Some are compact and easily fit through doorways while others need to stay in the room once assembled as they are too bulky. So check those cot measurements before getting out your credit card!
Does it take the entire family to assemble?
Let’s face it. We all hate flat pack instructions that cause arguments with hubby. Do yourself a favour and read reviews and specifications of the cots you are considering to eliminate the ones that are just too hard. There is nothing worse than being eight months pregnant and having to roll around the floor to get that final screw in. Have a look at the Incy Interiors Dad challenge to see how easy it is!
Does it grow with bub?
Many cot brands understand that having to buy a bassinet, a cot and then a toddler bed is less than ideal. We love a cot that is flexible and can grow with your little one. It saves the headaches of storing those pieces that bub has outgrown for #2 and lets you invest in a high-quality furniture item that will go the distance. Incy Interiors below has some great cots that all come with the option to convert later on.
Is it co-sleeping friendly?
Those early nights where mum has to get up every two hours to feed bub are challenging. Some cots can be used as co-sleepers which allows mum to simply roll over, attend to bub and get back to sleep without leaving the bed. That gets three ticks from us!
Is it height adjustable?
Lifting a bub or toddler in and out of their cot can put some serious pressure on your back. Buying a height-adjustable cot can make all the difference in those early months when you are still recovering from your pregnancy. Not having to bend over as much to lift bub can seem irrelevant now, but wait until you have to do it several times a day and your physio is your best friend. You can thank us later!
How far out do we need to order?
And last, but not least, one of the most important considerations. You’d be surprised how far out you have to order with some nursery brands to get your hands on your dream cot. So better get in early to not miss out!
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The safest baby cot is one that complies with Australian safety standards, has a firm, well-fitting mattress, and no drop sides or loose parts. Avoid cots with decorative cut-outs or protruding corners that could trap clothing or limbs. Fixed-side cots made from solid wood or metal offer excellent stability. For newborns, ensure the cot mattress is set to the highest level, then lower it as your baby starts sitting or standing. Safety and simplicity should always come first.
The cot mattress should fit snugly within the cot frame — with no more than a 2 cm gap between the mattress and the sides. A proper fit prevents your baby from getting trapped. Most Australian cots use standard mattress dimensions (130 x 69 cm), but always measure your cot before buying to ensure compatibility. Opt for a firm, breathable mattress with a removable, washable cover to maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of overheating.
A high-quality cot should offer safety, longevity, and ease of use. Look for features like:
- Convertible design (cot-to-toddler bed) for longer use.
- Adjustable base heights for newborns and older babies.
- Teething rails to protect little gums.
- Smooth wheels with locks for easy movement.
- Eco-friendly materials and non-toxic finishes for better air quality.
Investing in a durable, well-designed cot ensures comfort, safety, and peace of mind for years to come.
Before buying a baby cot, think about your baby’s age, your available space, and long-term use. Choose a cot that meets Australian safety standards (AS/NZS 2172), has adjustable mattress heights, and a sturdy, non-toxic finish. If you’re short on space, look for compact or foldable designs. For longevity, consider a convertible cot that can transition into a toddler bed. Balancing safety, practicality, and design will help you find the perfect cot for your growing baby.
For smaller homes or apartments, compact or portable cots are ideal. These models are lightweight, foldable, and easy to store, making them perfect for tight spaces or travel. You can also choose a mini cot or 2-in-1 convertible design that grows with your baby. Look for options with lockable wheels for mobility and adjustable base heights for convenience. Compact doesn’t mean less comfort — many modern small-space cots are as cozy and safe as full-sized ones.
