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About portable folding cots
Portable folding cots are small, enclosed beds for babies and toddlers. They can be folded, so they can be moved to different locations.
Portable folding cots are not as sturdy as household cots. They should only be used when a household cot is not an option.
Portable folding cots may also be known as:
- portacots
- folding cots
- travel cots.
This guide also includes playpens that fold and have a supportive base or floor.
New product safety rules
New mandatory standards for these products were introduced in July 2024. Businesses have 18 months to meet the new rules.
The new standards aim to reduce the risk of death and injury from products that babies do or may fall asleep in. See products that are safe for baby to sleep in.
Risks and injuries from the product
Babies are at risk of serious injuries or sudden death if they are not placed in a safe sleep environment.
Babies and toddlers can fall out of a portable cot and suffer serious injuries if:
- they have grown out of the cot. Stop using if they weigh more than 15kg or can stand, shake the sides or climb
- the locks aren’t used or engaged correctly
- the cot is damaged or not working correctly.
Babies and toddlers can suffocate if the portable folding cot:
- has the wrong mattress not designed specifically for that cot
- uses an inflatable mattress
- uses extra mattresses, bedding, pillows, bumpers or folded quilts.
Babies and toddlers can become trapped if:
- the folding mechanism collapses or is not properly locked in position.
Babies in folding cots can also be at risk of strangulation or burns if the cot is set up near hazardous items in the home. Don’t set the portable cot up within reach of:
- blinds
- curtain cords
- heaters
- electrical appliances
- decorative mobiles.
Playpens that don’t have strong sides or well-secured latches may tip over or collapse if children lean on the sides. If children fall this way, they can suffer serious injuries.
Things to look for when buying the product
Babies can be injured or die while using portable folding cots. For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.
Buying a portable folding cot that complies with the folding cots mandatory standard means it’s designed and constructed to reduce safety risks and injury.
Design and construction
- Secure locking device to prevent collapse.
- Locks that can’t be opened by a child from inside.
- Mattress touching the cot on every side.
- If on wheels, at least 2 wheels must have brakes.
Marks and labels
- Simple and visible safety warning statements.
Playpens
The mandatory standard also includes playpens with a floor.
- Choose a strong, sturdy model that won’t tip over when your child leans on the sides of the playpen.
- A heavier playpen is better than a lighter one.
Second-hand portable folding cots
If you decide to use, buy or borrow a second-hand portable folding cot make sure:
- the product hasn't been recalled
- it meets the current mandatory standard
- all parts are in good working order
- 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
Keep your baby and toddler safe by following this guidance.
Set up the portable folding cot safely
When setting up or checking your portable folding 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
- make sure all the locking mechanisms are secured every time you use it
- never make your own modifications that can damage safety features
- regularly check the locks and material for wear and tear from repeated folding and transport.
Create a safe sleep environment for your baby
Remember to settle 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 portable folding cot
- never put baby to sleep in an inclined or propped position
- keep portable folding cots in a clear space so babies can’t reach things
- remove portable folding cot accessories like change mats and inserts
- remove any pillows, soft toys and sleep aids
- never use extra mattresses, padding, pillows, bumpers or folded quilts.
Make sure you follow the Red Nose safe sleep advice. This includes:
Watch our video on cot safety
Setting up your baby’s sleeping space is an exciting part of preparing for the arrival of a little one. Cots come in many different designs to suit your style.
This video covers tips for safe cot use.
Video transcript
TEXT: Your first steps to a safe cot
VISION: A woman is putting together a cot using a hex key, testing it for rigidness.
TEXT: Step 1: Second-hand cots shouldn't mean second-rate safety
VISION: The woman places a mattress in the cot, and removes a soft toy.
TEXT: Step 2: A boring cot is a safe cot
VISION: The woman and her baby play in the cot.
TEXT: Step 3: For more safety tips visit productsafety.gov.au
ACCC Product Safety. Your first steps. productsafety.gov.au
