Second Hand Cots ⚠️

Why You Should Avoid Second Hand Cots for Your Baby’s Safety and Sleep

Choosing a cot is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your baby. While buying Second Hand Cots can seem like a great way to save money, the risks involved may not be worth the cost — especially when it comes to your baby’s safety and sleep.

This article explains why second-hand cots may be dangerous, what the current Australian standards require, and how to make the safest decision for your newborn.

So before you make that decision, here’s what you need to know.

The Real Safety Risks of Second Hand Baby Cots

Firstly, second hand cots may have missing or broken parts. These weak spots can create safety hazards. Babies can get stuck or hurt if a slat breaks or a screw is loose.

Next, many used cots are older. That means they may not meet today’s Australian safety standards. Cot design has changed a lot over the years to become safer. A second hand cot might not be up to date.

Also, parts can go missing over time. Even a missing screw or worn-down joint can make a cot unstable. That could cause it to collapse with your baby inside.

Outdated Standards Can Put Your Baby at Risk

In Australia, all new baby cots must meet strict safety rules. These rules help keep babies safe during sleep. For example, the slats must be spaced correctly. The mattress must fit perfectly. The sides must be high enough to stop your baby from falling out.

But second hand cots might not follow these rules. Some might be too old. Others might have been modified. You just can’t be sure.

Therefore, using second hand cots can mean taking a big risk. Even if it looks fine, it might not be safe.

Key Cot Safety Requirements

– Slat Spacing: No more than 50mm apart, to prevent limbs getting stuck
– Mattress Fit: No more than a 20mm gap between the mattress and the cot sides
– Secure Dropside (if applicable): Must lock properly and slide smoothly
– Durability: Cot must withstand repeated use without weakening or wobbling
– Certified Labelling: Must comply with AS/NZS 2172

Most second-hand cots, especially those made before 2013, do not meet current standards.

Even newer ones may not, especially with the many ebay type imported cots sold online only over the past 10 years. You could always check if it’s a current model available from a true bricks and mortar baby store.

If you can’t confirm the brand, model, or date of manufacture — don’t risk it.

Second Hand Cots Often Hide Hygiene and Allergen Issues

More than safety, second hand cots may not be clean. Over time, old cots collect dust, germs, and allergens. Babies have delicate lungs and skin. These tiny particles can make them sick.

Worse still, if the cot comes with a used mattress, that’s a big red flag. Mattresses absorb moisture, bacteria, and mould. You can’t always see the damage. But it can be there.

So, it’s never a good idea to reuse a cot mattress. And if you’re buying a cot second hand, you’ll usually get the mattress with it. That’s a risk not worth taking.

Used cots and mattresses can pose hidden hygiene risks, including:

• Dust mites
• Mould and mildew
• Bacteria and allergens
• Exposure to cigarette smoke or pets

Even if a second-hand mattress looks clean, it may not be safe. Over time, mattresses lose firmness and shape — increasing the risk of suffocation or Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI).

According to Red Nose Australia, the safest sleep surface for your baby is a firm, clean, flat mattress that fits snugly in the cot.

The False Economy of Buying a Used Cot

Sure, second hand cots are cheaper at first. But they can cost more in the long run.

You might have to replace parts. You might need to buy a new mattress. You might end up buying a new cot anyway if something goes wrong.

Plus, second hand cots don’t come with a warranty. That means no help if something breaks. No customer support. No guarantee.

On the other hand, a new cot comes with peace of mind.

• You know it’s safe.
• You know it’s allergen free
• You know it’s Dust-mite free
• You know it’s Mold free.
• You know it meets the CURRENT Australian standards
• You know it’s covered by a warranty.

What to Look for When Buying a Safe New Cot

When buying a new cot, there are key features to look for. First, check for certification. All cots sold by trusted stores in Australia must meet the AS/NZS 2172:2003 safety standard.

Next, make sure the cot comes with assembly instructions. It should be sturdy, with no sharp edges. The mattress should fit snugly with no large gaps. The slats should be spaced correctly. All these details matter for your baby’s safety.

At Bubs n Grubs, we only sell new baby cots that meet Australian standards. We help parents choose the safest option for their child. Whether it’s your first baby or your second, third, or fourth, your baby’s safety is always number one.

Final Thoughts: Choose Safety and Sleep with a New Cot

In conclusion, second hand cots are not worth the risk. Even if they look fine, they might be unsafe. They might be dirty. They might not meet today’s safety standards.

Instead, choose a new cot that offers both safety and peace of mind. With a new cot from Bubs n Grubs, you can rest easy knowing your baby is safe and sound.

So skip the second hand cots. Invest in your baby’s future with a cot that meets all safety requirements and keeps your little one comfortable and secure from day one.

My Conclusion

Bubs n Grubs are very selective when deciding which brands and models of products that we sell. In particular baby cots, baby car seats, baby prams and high chairs.  We do all the hard work for you. That is Judy and Myself as owners.

We personally evaluate each one before deciding to offer it. This is why we do not offer every brand and model under the sun – unlike our competitors.

We offer cot package deals to save you money. Cot package deals that are flexible and offer many customisations to make it easy for you.

Check out our rage of baby cots and cot package deals now!

If you are local to our store – come in and check out the product in person today!

These Deals are Only While Stocks Last

If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call our store!

Don’t forget, We will beat ANY Price! So if you find a better price out there in the market for these identical Baby Cots, let us know and I will smash it in line with our Advertised Price Guarantee!

 

Talk Soon,

Frank

 

About the Author

Frank is a founding owner of Bubs n Grubs. He is also the sole author of the Bubs n Grubs Baby Blog. He has been personally evaluating baby products & testing them before offering them to our customers since 2009. In addition, he is consistently giving manufacturer’s feedback & product development advice, reviewing & getting customer feedback. He has been doing this since the business started in 2009.  He is proud to be one of the rare baby store owners who regularly engages with customers in store. Frank values the constant feedback and regularly seeks it out. He has been featured on the Morning Show & the Today Show on Channel 7 and Channel 9 and is a recognised expert in baby products as a result.