Sleep Solutions

Cot Safety: What to Check

Cot Safety: What to Check

The sight of your little one snuggled up to their baby comforter in their cot is a heart-melting picture. But is the cot you’ve chosen really safe?


Follow this cot check list to ensure your bundle of joy always sleeps safely:


1: Cots sold in the UK should conform to BSEN716: 2005. This means that the bars of the cot are the correct width apart, the cot is deep enough for your baby to be safe and that the cot does not contain any steps or cut-outs.


2: If you’ve borrowed a cot or bought one second-hand, check safety measurements. The distance between the top of the mattress and the top of the cot sides should be no less than 50cm. The distance between each bar should be at least 2.5cm and no more than 6.5cm. It should not be possible to fit a soft drink between the slats.


3: If you’ve chosen a vintage cot, check the year of manufacture. There is a strong likelihood that cots made before 1973 have been painted with lead paint. If your cot was manufactured before this date (or if you’re unsure), strip the paint and re-paint it with a lead-free alternative. Also, remove any stickers that could peel off and become a choking hazard.


We’ve helped many babies (and parents!) to achieve better sleep. Click here  to read how our baby comforters have transformed the lives of our customers.