Are Drop Side Cots Worth It? What Australian Parents Should Know
Drop Side Cots Vs Fixed Side Cots
When parents ask, “Are Drop Side Cots worth it?” the answer is YES – and once they see one in action, they usually agree immediately.
Do you absolutely need a drop side cot? No. But there are many benefits for both you and your baby that make them worth considering.
What Most Parents Don’t Realise
Many parents initially think drop side cots are simply a convenience feature.
However, once the baby arrives, the practical benefits often become much more obvious.
Drop side cots can be especially useful for:
- parents recovering from a C-section
- shorter parents
- parents with back pain
- grandparents helping with care
- settling sleeping babies gently
- reducing awkward lifting over high cot rails
Many parents only fully appreciate the difference after using both a fixed side cot and a drop side cot in real-world situations.
Types of Drop Side Cots
There are generally two types of drop side cots: single-hand and two-hand mechanisms.
- Single-hand drop side: You can walk up to the cot with your baby in one arm, drop the side with the other hand, place your baby inside.
- Two-hand drop side: Requires both hands to operate, meaning you’ll need to plan ahead or set baby down safely first.
For most parents – especially those who have had a C-section, are shorter in height or have limited mobility – the single-hand option is usually the most practical choice. Even taller parents often appreciate the convenience.
Drop Side Cot vs Fixed Side Cot
| Feature | Drop Side Cot | Fixed Side Cot |
|---|---|---|
| Lifting baby in/out | Less bending and strain | Requires lifting over full rail height |
| Back comfort | Often easier on the back | Can increase bending strain |
| Settling sleeping babies | Gentler placement possible | More awkward lowering movement |
| Sheet changes | Usually easier access | Can require more reaching |
| Mechanism maintenance | Moving parts require occasional maintenance | Simpler overall structure |
Benefits of Drop Side Cots
- Better for your back: Reduces bending over high cot rails, minimising strain.
- Helps keep baby asleep: Lowering the side quietly allows you to place a sleeping baby down more gently.
- Easier bedding changes: Lowered sides make changing sheets much simpler.
Fixed side cots simply don’t offer these same convenience benefits.
Drop Side Mechanisms
Mechanisms are typically either metal or nylon (plastic):
- Metal: Longer lifespan, but can be noisier.
- Nylon: Quieter, reducing the chance of waking baby, but may wear over time if used for multiple children. Replacement parts are usually available.
Internal vs External Mechanisms
We strongly recommend internal mechanisms for both safety and aesthetics. External mechanisms may present safety concerns and generally look less appealing.
Are Drop Side Cots Safe?
Yes – when purchased in Australia and compliant with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2172.
Many parents become confused because drop side cots were banned in the United States years ago.
However, Australia has different regulations and different testing requirements.
Australian cot standards are among the strictest in the world, and properly tested drop side cots sold in Australia are considered safe when assembled and used correctly according to manufacturer instructions.
That is why we strongly recommend buying from reputable Australian baby furniture brands with proper independent testing and support.
Summary
- Safe if purchased in Australia and tested to AS/NZS 2172
- Better for your back
- Helps keep baby asleep
- Highly recommended after a C-section
- Ideal for shorter parents or those with disabilities
- Quieter with nylon mechanisms
Single-hand drop side cots are one of the most practical cot designs available for many families.
Some brands choose not to manufacture drop side cots, while others continue offering them because many parents still value the convenience and practicality.
The best way to decide is to compare both styles in person and choose what suits your family, nursery setup and lifting comfort best.
Our trained team can help you decide if a drop side cot is right for you and help narrow down the best model for your needs.
We currently have incredible deals on all our cots – click below for instant access:
About the Author
Frank is the founding owner of Bubs n Grubs and sole author of the Bubs n Grubs Baby Blog. He has personally tested and evaluated baby products since 2009, provides feedback to manufacturers and is a fully trained car seat fitter by ACRI. Frank is frequently featured on national TV as a recognised baby product expert.
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