As a parent, safety is your number one priority when it comes to your little one. It’s essential that any products you use meet the highest safety standards.

Unfortunately, some products are not always what they seem and can present potential hazards for our little ones. Drop side cots are an example of a product that can be dangerous if not used correctly - in fact, drop side cots have been illegal in the U.S since 2011 but are still legal in Europe.

Let’s take a closer look at why these cots can be so hazardous.

What Are Drop Side Cots?

Drop side cots are those which feature a removable side rail that can be lowered or raised with the help of a track system and latch located at the top corner of each side rail.

This allows parents to easily access their baby without having to reach over bars or lift them out from the foot end of the cot, which is especially helpful for shorter parents.

However, as helpful as this feature may seem, it has been linked to at least 32 infant deaths due to suffocation or strangulation between 2000 and 2010 in the US alone!

What Makes Them So Dangerous?

The problems arise from improper assembly or installation of these cots which may cause hardware failure or detachment of the rails from their tracks or latches – this means that there is nothing preventing them from suddenly sliding down and trapping your baby inside or even worse, allowing them to fall out of the cot altogether!

If you do decide to use a drop side cot (which are still legal in some countries) then make sure that you read all instructions carefully and perform regular maintenance checks on all parts including screws, bolts, tracks etcetera.

A quick check every few weeks should ensure that everything is kept secure and safe for your little one!

Can Drop Sided Cots be Used Safely?

Drop sided cots can be used safely if they are properly assembled and maintained. Always read the instructions carefully and perform regular checks to make sure all parts are in good condition.

If you have any doubts, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a different type of cot.

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your little one!

Be sure to look out for other potential hazards in the nursery too so you can ensure your baby’s safety at all times.

Alternatives To Drop Side Cots

Fortunately, there are plenty of safe alternatives available for parents who want easy access to their baby's crib without compromising safety. There are several types of fixed-side cot designs available on the market today which provide secure frames with no risk of breaking parts or getting stuck between mattress and frame.

Another option is a co-sleeping bed which allows parents and baby to sleep together safely but still gives both parties their own space throughout the night.

Whichever type of cot you choose, be sure to read all safety warnings and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

By taking these extra precautions, you can rest assured that your baby is safe and sound in their crib!

Conclusion

Drop side cots may sound like an attractive option due to their ease-of-use but they come with serious risks – especially if you don’t take proper care when assembling and maintaining them.

Before deciding whether a drop side cot is right for your family, consider all safety factors carefully and ensure that you choose a product that meets the highest standards possible.

By taking extra precautions now, you can rest assured knowing that your little one is safe and secure for years to come!