Household cots guide

About household cots

Household cots are small, enclosed beds for babies and toddlers used within the home.

They can be rectangular or circular and some convert to toddler beds. Some have a side that can drop down or adjustable mattress levels for easier access.

Things to look for when buying the product

Babies can be injured or die while using household cots. For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with for household cots.

Buying a household cot that complies with the household cots mandatory standard means it’s designed and constructed to reduce safety risks and injury.

Household cots that meet the mandatory standard have been made to ensure safe heights and gaps to reduce the risk of a child becoming trapped or falling.

Design and construction

• There are statements on the recommended mattress size and thickness.
• If the cot is on wheels, at least 2 wheels must have brakes.
• There is a clearly distinct locked position.

Marks and labels

• There are simple and visible safety warnings.
• The cot comes with instructions for safe assembly and use.

Second-hand cots

If you decide to use, buy or borrow a second-hand cot make sure:

• the product hasn't been recalled
• it meets the current mandatory standard
• all parts are in good working order
• it includes the instructions for safe assembly and use.

For tips and more information, see Buy second-hand products that are safe.

How to use the product safely

Setting up and styling your baby’s sleeping space is an exciting part of preparing for the arrival of your child. Safety, though, never goes out of style. Keep your baby safe by following this guidance.

Set up and maintain the household cot safely

When setting up or checking your household cot, make sure you:

• follow the product assembly instructions
• follow product guidelines for your baby’s age, size and development
• only use the mattress specifically designed for your cot as labelled
• never make your own modifications that can damage safety features or the integrity of the cot.

Create a safe sleep environment for your baby

Remember to put your baby to sleep in a safe environment. Make sure you:

• always put baby on their back on a flat, firm and level surface with their head and face uncovered
• maintain good breathability and ventilation on all sides of the household cot
• never put baby to sleep on an inclined or propped position
• keep household cots in a clear space so babies can’t reach unsafe things
• remove any soft toys and sleep aids
• never use extra mattresses, padding, pillows, bumpers, folded quilts or sleep positioners
• check for sharp edges or parts that stick out more than 0.5 cm, as they can snag on your baby’s skin or clothing.

Make sure you follow the Red Nose safe sleep advice including:

• Red Nose six safe sleep recommendations
• Red Nose what is a safe sleep environment
• Red Nose how to make up a baby’s cot

Know how to use drop side cots and adjustable mattress levels

If the household cot has a drop-side:

• regularly check it’s working correctly with repeated use
• always have the drop-side up and locked when your baby is sleeping.

If the household cot has upper and lower mattress levels:

• move it to the lowest level as soon as the child can sit, pull or stand themselves up.

See also

Household cots mandatory standard

Portable and folding cots consumer guidance

Products that are safe for baby to sleep in consumer guidance