And baby food is particularly persistent – have you ever tried to get dried Weet-Bix off the wall without taking a layer of paint off with it? That stuff sets like concrete!

Between the nappies, extra laundry and sleep deprivation, you already have enough to deal with – so anything you can do to lessen the load is worth it.

Since the high chair is ground zero for mealtimes, minimising the nooks and crannies where food can accumulate will make cleaning up faster and less agonising.

So what makes a high chair easier to clean? And how do you decide which one is best for your baby? We’ll explain, and tell you which hard-to-clean high chairs are best to avoid.

How we test ease of cleaning

To assess how easy high chairs are to clean, our experts play with their food – literally.

In our labs, they cover the tray, seat back, padding and harness with Weet-Bix and milk, spaghetti with tomato sauce, and baby food, then let it dry overnight.

The next day, they set to work wiping, scrubbing and washing each section of the high chair, then score it on how difficult it is to clean.

They find that chairs with lots of cracks and crevices are generally harder to clean, so they tend to score lower.

Since cleaning is such a big part of what makes parents’ lives easier, the ease of cleaning score makes up 30% of the total ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating.

What to look for in a high chair

Just like every baby is different, so too is every family’s priorities for a high chair. Here are a few things to consider before you go shopping:

Space

How much room do you have? If your dining room is tiny (or non-existent), a high chair that folds up could help free up space in between meals. 

Trays might be handy, but they do increase the size of a high chair. Would you be better off just parking the high chair at the table and using the table top instead of a tray? Or would you rather keep the mealtime mayhem well away from your furniture?

Safety

Toddlers are squirmy creatures and if there’s a way to escape, they’ll find it. If they’re not securely contained in their high chair they could fall or climb out and be injured.

“It’s best practice for a high chair to have a five-point harness with waist, shoulder and crotch straps,” says ÌÇÐÄVlog baby and kids product expert Kim Gilmour.

Stability

Chair legs that splay outwards will make a high chair more stable, so look for a high chair that has a footprint larger than the seat.Ìý

Our expert testers rigorously assess each high chair to check if it’ll topple over sideways or backwards – check our reviews to make sure you’re buying a chair that’ll stay put, no matter how active your child is.

Sustainability

Rather than buying a new chair every time your child grows, you could consider a convertible chair that you can modify to suit your child’s needs. 

Convertible high chairs may cost more upfront, but take into account how much use you’ll get out of it – if your child uses it until they’re big enough to sit in a regular dining chair, then you won’t have to spend money on booster seats and the like.

Bear in mind though that you may need to pay extra for attachments such as a tray, harness and safety bar.

The high chairs that score lowest for ease of cleaning

Unless you’re keen on spending hours scrubbing mushed avocado, days-old Bolognaise and broccoli puree from hard-to-reach corners, avoid these high chairs.

They range in price from $35 to $578, which just goes to show that even expensive designer chairs aren’t necessarily designed to be parent-friendly.

Leander Chair

• Ease of cleaning score: 20%
• Price: $430

Mocka Soho High Chair

• Ease of cleaning score: 45%
• Price: $150

4Baby Easy Highchair

• Ease of cleaning score: 47%
• Price: $35

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair (with Baby Set)

• Ease of cleaning score: 48%
• Price: $578

4Baby Diner

• Ease of cleaning score: 48%
• Price: $99

InfaSecure Babytime Sedia High/Low Chair

• Ease of cleaning score: 49%
• Price: $330

Love n Care Montana BP 894 High Chair

• Ease of cleaning score: 50%
• Price: $250

The post The high chairs that are hardest to clean appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How much do high chairs cost?
• What to look for in a high chair

High chairs should be sturdy and safe and have all the right features to make feeding time easy. This guide includes things to consider when buying a stand-alone high chair, as well as other options like portable or clip-on baby chairs.

High chair safety

The most common form of injury involving high chairs is when a child falls after trying to stand up in, climb into, or get out of the chair. Other serious injuries can result from having their fingers, toes or limbs pinched or crushed by moving parts or gaps, or choking on easily detachable small parts. 

Make sure you check out the chair when it’s set up in the store, and really get in there – rock it to check stability, get your fingers into any nooks and crannies, and play with moving parts to check for finger or limb traps.

When shopping, look for chairs that comply with the Australian Standard for high chairs, AS 4684:2009, or the European Standard (EN 14988) – there are a variety of different styles, so you shouldn’t have to sacrifice safety to buy one that looks good in your kitchen or dining room, if that’s important to you. 

And when you get home, make sure you set up the chair at least half a metre from anything your child could use to push off from and topple over – windows, large furniture, pull cords on lights or blinds, and so on.

How much do high chairs cost?

Given the high chairs in our most recent test start at $29 and go up to almost $800, it can be difficult to work out how much you should be paying.

However, our testing has shown that a higher price tag isn’t always an indicator of a better performer – we recommend several models under $100 that pass all our key safety tests and score well for ease of cleaning, so you don’t have to spend big to get a quality high chair.

What to look for in a high chair

Five-point harness

This means a harness with shoulders, waist and crotch straps so kids can’t fall or climb out. One with three points (waist and crotch straps only) may be worth considering, but five-point harnesses are safer.

Shoulder straps that attach to the seat at shoulder height provide more effective restraint than ones that attach to the back of the waist strap.

The crotch strap should be anchored close enough to the back that the child can’t slip through one side. The buckles should be easy for you, but not your child, to release.

Ideally, the harness should be non-removable, or at least require a tool to remove it for washing (such as undoing a screw). This is so that you or your child are unlikely to take it off and lose it, or forget to reattach it.

Convertible chairs

Some high chairs are sold as junior chairs suitable for young children, but with a high chair attachment (seat and tray) that costs extra.

Construction

This should be sturdy and robust enough to carry the weight of a child. Push on the seat and backrest to see if these squeak, sag, deform, move out of position or collapse.

Stability

Look for legs that spread outwards further than all other parts of the chair – the area of the floor space between the four legs should be greater than the area of the seat. Perfectly vertical legs aren’t as stable.

Moving parts

These shouldn’t be able to pinch, crush or trap a child’s finger, toe, limb or head (or the fingers of an adult folding or adjusting the chair). Also check for sharp edges and points along the edges of the chair and tray, and easily detachable parts (including stickers) that could pose a choking hazard.

Castor wheels

These are handy for moving the chair around and they should have brakes that lock in position on at least two of them (the front or back set). If the chair doesn’t have castors, make sure it’s light enough to move easily without them.

Large or adjustable seat

This is useful if you plan to use the chair for some years, as it will accommodate a toddler.

Reclining back or seat

This is good for younger babies who can’t sit upright for long.

Tray

This should be secure when fitted, but easy to remove, attach and adjust.

Height adjustment and back-reclining

Height adjustment is a handy feature that should be easy for you, but not your child, to operate. It lets the chair match the seat you’re feeding your child from. The mechanism should be out of the child’s reach and require some strength or dexterity to use. 

Any models that have back-reclining should never be used in this position for feeding solids or sleeping.

Foldable

This is handy for storage. The chair should be easy to fold and unfold, and preferably lock in its folded position.

Lightweight

If you’re going to be regularly getting the chair out and storing it away again, make sure it’s not too heavy.

Footrest or leg support

This is important to support the child’s feet or calves. Adjustable footrests are useful as the child grows.

Simple to clean

Watch out for nooks and crannies in the chair frame, cushion or straps where food can be hard to clean out. Some models have a lot of cushioning which may be comfy for your child, but can be very difficult to clean.

Material

You may be able to choose from a range of colours and patterns. The cushioning on many high chairs may be wipe-clean vinyl. Darker colours and busy patterns may disguise stains better.

Portable high chairs

Harnesses, boosters and clip-on toddler and infant seats are compact alternatives to a standard high chair – here are additional things to consider if you like this option.

Fitting

The seat should fit securely and easily. Most stores (and product websites) have them set up so you can see how they work.

Security

Make sure the seat won’t move, or tip over the table or chair, once it’s attached and your child is in place. Give it a firm tug up, down, sideways, back and forth to make sure it’s anchored securely.

Seat

The seat should have back and side support, and prevent the child from leaning too far and unbalancing or falling. A seat that reclines is useful for seating an infant.

Tray

If provided, the tray should be secure when fitted but easy to remove, attach and adjust.

Washable

The chair should be easy to clean.

Height-adjustable

Some booster seats can be height adjusted for smaller or larger children.

Capacity

Check that the recommended age and weight for the seat suits your child.

Junior chairs

When your child has grown up a little and no longer needs a harness to sit safely, you could consider a tall junior chair as a replacement for the old high chair. These are simply elevated, child-sized seats that allow your youngster to sit at the dinner table with the family. They usually have a footrest so the child can sit comfortably without their legs dangling. (As mentioned previously, some of these chairs come with high chair attachments.)

The high chair standard does not technically apply to chairs like these, so check that the chair is stable enough to not topple sideways or backwards if the child pushes against the table.

The post What to look for when buying a high chair appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

Here’s how to choose the right baby changing table, according to our experts. And do you actually need a change table at all?

On this page:

• Types of change table
• Features to look for in a change table
• Top 5 tips for changing your baby safely
• Do you need a baby change table?

Types of change table

There are several main types of change tables you’ll find in shops:

• wooden tables with two or three tiers to hold baby supplies
• portable folding tables with a metal frame and fabric body
• tables that include a baby bath under the change surface
• changing tables with drawers, designed to be a permanent fixture.

Features to look for in a change table

Safety

• A change table should be strong, stable and have some form of roll-off protection, such as raised sides, to prevent a child rolling off the changing surface.
• It should also be free of hazards such as sharp edges or finger or limb traps.Ìý
• The side barriersÌýideally should be at least 10cm high with the change table mat in place; this is high enough to prevent roll-off when the table is used correctly, and is easy to check instore before you buy, which is why ÌÇÐÄVlog encourages manufacturers to make their tables with sides of this height. (In our change table tests, some models with shorter sides than this have passed the roll-off test, but it’s a good rule of thumb.)
• A restraint strap can help secure your baby, but is not a substitute for proper attention and normal safety measures.
• Harnesses are useful for a little extra peace of mind, but again you should never wholly rely on them to keep your baby safe.
• The table should be well balanced to avoid tipping. Some non-portable designs (such as change tables that double as a piece of furniture) should have an anchor kit provided to prevent tipping.

Storage space

• The change table should have plenty of storage space or a caddy to keep nappies, wipes, lotion, spare clothes and other baby necessities within arm’s reach, so you don’t have to go far or take your eye off your baby to fetch things.
• Check that the shelves or drawers areÌýbig enoughÌýto be useful, and in aÌýconvenient positionÌýfor the spot in the nursery where you’ll place the table.
• Multiple shelves and side trays give the most storage, but a table with just one shelf is still useful.

Height

• Choose a change table that suits your height, so you won’t have to bend or reach too far while changing nappies (which, remember, you’ll be doing around 6000 times!).

Foldable

• If you’re short on space, aÌýfoldable change table could be a good buy.

Changing mat (mattresses)

• Not all change tables include a mattress or changing mat, so you may need to buy one separately. Consult the instructions for dimensions and make sure it fits snugly. A mattress with raised sides will help prevent your baby from rolling over.Ìý
• The most common styles are generally made of foam and are covered in vinyl, which is easy to wipe clean, but these may be cold and uncomfortable for some babies (which is when a muslin cloth, hand towel or change mat liner comes in handy). There are modern designs that include detachable pillows, soft faux leather finishes, or heavier ones with a squishy, rubbery surface.Ìý
• You may want to buy a couple of changing mats and have one in a different room for the times you can’t get to the main change table in time. A changing mat can cost between $30 and $80.

Portability

• Some people prefer a change table that can be wheeled to other locations on the same floor. Check whether the change table has castors at the bottom, and if so, whether the castors haveÌýbrakes.

Ease of cleaning

• The changing surface should be easy to wipe down when messes happen (and they will!). The mattress or padding should also be easy to wash.

Assembly

• Some change tables come in hundreds of pieces. While you’ll probably only be doing this once, it’s a good idea to put some time aside for the task. Our experts, who have experience assembling hundreds of change tables, have found that some take more than an hour to complete.

Budget

• A change table usually costs from around $69 for your basic model and goes all the way up to $1300, depending on the style.

Top 5 tips for changing your baby safely

1. Make sure collapsible frames are locked securely in place before use.
2. Keep everything needed to change your baby close at hand but out of their reach.
3. Make sure the change table is free from small objects that can cause choking.
4. Try to keep one hand on your baby at all times while changing them. Never leave your baby unattended on a change table, even just to grab something across the room – always take them with you.
5. Be wary of older siblings climbing on change tables, especially models with pull-out drawers that can act as steps or unbalance the table.

Do you need a baby change table?

A change table is not an essential buy for your nursery as other surfaces can be used to change your baby (in conjunction with a separate changing mat). There will be occasions when you can’t get to your change table and need to change your baby then and there. 

You may find changing your baby on a bed or on the floor with a change mat perfectly adequate. Just be sure to keep them supervised at all times, as they can be very wriggly! Once your baby gets to toddler stage, they may outgrow their change table.

If you’re set on a change table, our experts test them in our ÌÇÐÄVlog labs, looking at a number of important safety features such as stability, entrapment and fall risks.

The post What to know when buying a change table for your baby appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Furniture for younger babies
• Furniture for older babies
• Child safety devices

As safety and ease of use are priorities for tired new parents, you’ll be pleased to know that over years of testing, ÌÇÐÄVlog has found you don’t need to spend big for a product that’ll give you peace of mind. So what equipment do you need to consider?

Furniture for younger babies

Bassinets and bedside sleepers

Bassinets are convenient because they don’t take up as much space as a cot and can be placed beside your own bed. But babies grow out of bassinets quickly – once your baby can roll over or pull themselves up it’s time to move them into a cot.

There’s no Australian standard for bassinets, so we test them to a ÌÇÐÄVlog method based on existing safety standards for cots and folding cots.

Bedside sleepers are another kind of bassinet that attaches or sits next to to the parental bed to mimic co-sleeping without the baby being in the same bed. The side folds down to allow for easier access during the night.

Despite the claims from manufacturers that bedside sleepers are safe, we’ve tested a few of these and have found some serious risks including a lack of breathable sides, poor stability, insufficient strength and the possibility for head and limb entrapment between the bedside sleeper and the adult bed.

Cots

Safety, durability and ease of use for the parent are important factors when buying a cot.ÌýThey can be costly items, so doing your research can save time and money. They’re suitable from birth and, unlike bassinets, there is an Australian standard for cots. You can also make them last well into childhood as many, for instance, can convert to a toddler-sized or even a single bed.

Our cot mattress reviews also reveal which models are sufficiently firm. A mattress that is too soft is a suffocation risk.

Portable/travel cots

Portable cots (also known as travel cots and portacots) make it easy to be mobile, but as our portable cot reviews reveal, their soft construction can pose some serious safety risks.

Change tables

Wrestling with a wriggly infant can not only be infuriating, it can be downright dangerous if you have a poorly designed change table. Our change table buying guide tells you what to look for.

Furniture for older babies

When your little one starts to get mobile it’s time to think about the next batch of furniture you’ll need.

High chairs

Once your baby can hold its head up (at about six months) a good high chairÌýwill make feeding much easier, provided you buy one that’s stable and easy to clean!

Safety gates and barriers

Notoriously curious and very fast, babies can be surprisingly dextrous when they set their minds to a task. That’s why buying the right safety gates and barriers and installing them correctly to block off stairs and doorways is crucial for your peace of mind.

Playpens

Giving a harried parent a little hands-off breathing space, playpens can be a godsendÌý– but in the absence of an Australian standard you’ll need to do your research. (Once you’ve read the playpens buying guide, our playpen reviews areÌýa good starting point.)

Bed rails

Also known as safety rails or bed guards, these devices create a barrier that prevent falls from a bed; we don’t have a Ìýcurrent review of this product but our bed rail buying guide tells you what to look out for.

Child safety devices

Every room in the house can present a host of enticing but dangerous objects such as power points, kitchen chemicals, medicines, and hazards like a toppling TV or the danger of strangulation from loose blind cords. So, well-designed and secure child safety devices as well as anchoring items to walls can help.

The post How to buy the best baby furniture appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• Our expert testers
• How we choose what we test
• How we test cot mattresses
• Mattress specifications
• Test criteria explained

The Australian/New Zealand standard for mattress firmness provides manufacturers with a definitive test using a special apparatus to determine softness. But we still aren’t seeing manyÌýmattress-makers claim compliance on their packaging or websites. That’s where ÌÇÐÄVlog comes in.

ÌÇÐÄVlog has tested a number of cot mattresses for sale in mainstream Australian retail outlets to see whether they meet the standard test for firmness, with some surprising results.

Our expert testers

With more than 20 years of experience, our expert testers are the bee’s knees of children’s product testing. They’ve seen all the brands and varying cot configurations on the market, and have put each to the test. Our testers also sit on the for children’s products.

How we choose what we test

Most of the time, our priority is to test what you’ll see in the retailers. Our cot mattresses typically come from brands you’ll see in mainstream nursery or department stores, or ones that feature prominently when you search for them online.Ìý

To come up with our list, we survey manufacturers to find out their range of models. Our buyers then purchase products as you, the consumer, would, either in-store or online. This is to ensure the products we receive have not been tweaked with in any way or checked to make sure that particular model passed a certain test.

How we test cot mattresses

We use the .

From 19 January 2026, manufacturers will legally need to make sure their mattresses are sufficiently firm thanks to the introduction of new mandatory safety and information standards for infant sleep products. The firmness test is a reliable way to check this. While not many mattresses claim compliance, the test is actually very simple and quick.

We tested cot mattresses for the first time in 2016 using a special apparatus that consists of a circular disk with two flat faces, as well as a feeler arm that extends over the disk. The whole apparatus weighs around 5.2kg.

To test mattress firmness, the mattresses are first conditioned in the lab for two days to ensure consistent temperatures. Each mattress is then decompressed by agitating or shaking it in order to aerate and distribute any filler material.

Our testers then place the apparatus at various points of the mattress as determined by the standard. These include three equidistant points along the centre of the mattress (including the centre itself) with the feeler arm aligned with the centre line.Ìý

The standard also specifies one “worst case scenario” point. This point is very important and represents a soft point, fold or undulation where a baby’s nose and mouth might come into contact with the surface.Ìý

If the feeler arm happens to touch the sleep surface when it is placed horizontally on the mattress at any point, then the surface is too soft to be safe.

There is a DIY method that people can do at home using milk cartons and a stack of CDs or DVDs – it’s not a substitute for the official test but it will give you an idea of firmness.

Mattress specifications

Specifications are not part of the firmness standard but they give you an idea as to whether the actual measurements differ greatly from the claimed measurements. For more on this and why it is important, see our cot mattress buying guide.

Test criteria explained

We recommend all mattresses that pass the safety test so long as the actual measurements are accurate enough.

Models that receive a ÌÇÐÄVlog Expert Rating of 100% have passed all the firmness and measurement tests.

Models that score 80% and up are still recommended (and pass the firmness test) but there may be a very minor discrepancy between claimed and actual mattress dimensions.

Models that score 65% have passed the firmness test, but care must be taken to ensure the mattress fits correctly into the cot.

Models that score 40% or below have a serious failure (usually they are not firm enough, but they may have other problems such as the absence of any labels to indicate the size of the mattress).

The post How we test cot mattresses appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

A cot is probably one of the very first purchases you make as a new parent. Once your baby has grown out of a bassinet, it’s a place where they’ll be spending many daytime naps and nights catching (hopefully) plenty of sleep.Ìý

While you may be considering how a certain colour or style of cot might fit into your nursery design, the most important thing is that it’s a safe sleeping space for your child.

And while many of us head instore to familiar big-brand baby outlets, more people are turning to online retailers with wider selections and potentially lower prices.

But ÌÇÐÄVlog expert testing has found that a number of cheap cots purchased from online marketplaces are unsafe.

In fact, in our latest review of 14 baby cots, five were found to have serious safety failures. Most of the cots with failures were either bought from eBay or via online platforms like Baby Bunting Marketplace, where third-party retailers can list and sell products. One of the cots was bought from Big W.Ìý

‘Online shoppers need to be careful’

These cots were very cheap – ranging in price from just $139 up to $370 – from the brands Sweet Pea, Consol,ÌýKoko and Scar,ÌýGrotime and Luxo Baby.

ÌÇÐÄVlog baby product expertÌýKim Gilmour says online shoppers need to be careful.

“While a low price tag is enticing, we have found that many cheap cots sold on online marketplace sites are not meeting quality and safety standards,” she says.

“In this batch alone, there are multiple issues with the products not adhering to basic Australian safety standards. Some had no safety warnings and were missing information about recommended mattress sizes.”

Gilmour says some seemed to be cheaply made with evidence of poor workmanship, making them unsafe for babies and toddlers.

“For example, one of the cots has an issue with its locking mechanism, meaning the dropside is very easy to accidentally trigger, which could cause the side of the cot to fall down and the baby to fall out,” she says.

Risks of unsafe cotsÌý

An unsafe cot can lead to many different types of injuries. A child’s head or limbs can become trapped, fingers can get caught in mechanisms, and children can injure themselves climbing out of the cot. Children can also be injured if part of the cot breaks or doesn’t work properly, such as if the side falls down or screws come loose.Ìý

If a mattress doesn’t fit properly – which is much more likely to happen if the cot does not specify the correct size of mattress to use inside it – this could cause a risk of suffocation.

It’s extremely important to assess a cot for safety before you buy. Cots sold in Australia in 2025 should be certified under mandatory Australian safety standards, but ÌÇÐÄVlog has found cots on the market that don’t comply.Ìý

A new Australian mandatory standard aiming to improve cot safety comes into effect in January 2026. But in the meantime, safety remains a vital part of ÌÇÐÄVlog testing.Ìý

Our experts test each cot against key safety clauses from the Australian Standard AS/NZS 2172:2013. Only cots that pass stringent tests in our accredited labs are recommended. These tests include:

• using probes to check for suitable gaps between the bars and panels of the cot to avoid limb injury
• checking that there is sufficient depth of the cot to prevent falls
• testing the dropside’s strength and construction, if there is one
• checking for strangulation risks at the cot ends
• checking that the recommended mattress size doesn’t leave too much of a gap between the mattress, cot sides and end.

The cots that failed our latest safety tests

We alerted eBay and the manufacturers of the cots that failed our safety testing to our findings. eBay has removed the cots from sale, but several are still listed on other online marketplaces. For example, the Sweet Pea Anita cot is currently listed online at Baby Bunting and the Grotime Haven cot is still available at Big W.

Click on the link for each cot below to view our test results and read about the safety failures.Ìý

• Consol Roma cot: $229
• Grotime Haven cot: $139Ìý
• Koko & Scar cot: $279
• Luxo Baby Eudora cot: $249
• Sweet Pea Anita cot: $370Ìý

The only response we received from a manufacturer was from the makers of the Sweet Pea cot. In response to our findings, the manufacturer says the cot has “undergone full compliance testing through an independent third-party laboratory”, and that “based on the certified results, we are confident that our product meets mandatory safety standards and is safe for consumer use”.

It has provided ÌÇÐÄVlog with a copy of the report complying with the relevant requirements of AS/NZS 2172:2013; however, we stand by the results of our expert testing in our accredited lab.

ÌÇÐÄVlog calls for safer products for Australians

Right now, it is not illegal to sell unsafe products in Australia. While a handful of products are subject to mandatory standards and product bans, there’s no general law preventing the sale of unsafe products, unlike in other jurisdictions like the EU and UK.

This means when you go to the shops or buy something online, you can’t be certain that the manufacturer has made sure it’s safe for use. This is why ÌÇÐÄVlog wants stronger safety laws.Ìý

“It’s disappointing to see online marketplaces continue to miss the mark on ensuring the products being sold on their platforms are safe,” says Andy Kelly, ÌÇÐÄVlog deputy director of campaigns and communications.

“That’s why to introduce strong new product safety laws that would make it illegal to sell unsafe products, and close the current loophole in the law that allows online marketplaces to shirk responsibility for unsafe goods.”

Buying a cot instore vs buying online

While online retailers offer a wide selection of cots and potentially lower prices, it can be a good idea to head instore to inspect the model you wish to buy before you buy it.Ìý

It’s essential to ensure the cot meets Australian safety standards and has proper certification – ÌÇÐÄVlog experts recommend you take a tape measure with you and understand a few hazards to look out for (you can find advice on this in our cot buying guide).

Advice for buying secondhand

With the price of a standard cot reaching into the high hundreds in popular baby stores, it’s understandable that many parents may be looking online for cheaper alternatives.Ìý

Instead of buying a cheap new cot online, you may like to consider buying secondhand. While this is a great way to save money and re-use a piece of furniture, there are some things to keep in mind.Ìý

In Australia, cots have only been subject to a mandatory standard since 1998, and our tests show that even since then, not every cot meets the standard. As well as looking for a model post-1998, you should also consider the following factors.

• Safety: Check that all parts are in working order, in particular whether the catches are too easy to undo for a child. Make sure it meets modern safety standards and check whether there are instructions for assembly and safe use.
• Mattress: We recommend buying a new, correctly-fitting cot mattress where possible, as an old mattress may be a SIDS or breathability risk if it’s too soft (or it could just be dirty!)
• Cot history: Second-hand cots are great for sustainability, but do check its history and whether it’s been heavily used. Over time, it may have become worn or damaged.

The post The baby cots with serious safety failures appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

If you’re in the market for a high chair, you’ve probably noticed that prices vary dramatically from one product to the next.

Although simple models such as the Ikea Antilop (or one of its clones) can cost $25 or less, designer high chairs from brands including Stokke, Boori and Bloom can set you back anywhere from $300 to almost $800.

But do you really need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good high chair? It’s easy to be swayed by fancy features and eye-catching designs, but most seasoned parents will tell you that safety, convenience and ease of cleaning are what matter most.

To make life easy for you, our experts have tested more than 30 high chairs, looking specifically at these factors. And it turns out the more expensive product isn’t always the best.

Benefits of a high-end high chair

Good looks

A high chair may be a practical item, but it’s also a fairly large piece of furniture that’s frequently (or even constantly) on display in your home, so the way it looks can be important. 

“Some expensive high chairs are real showpieces that can complement a modern kitchen, with striking wooden or chrome designs,” says ÌÇÐÄVlog children’s product expert Kim Gilmour.

But she also points out plenty of decent ‘copycat’ models are available for much lower prices.

For example, if you like the Scandinavian look, you could shell out $369 for the Stokke Clikk. 

But for less than half the price, the Childcare Eve ($129) achieved a similar score, and the Mocka Jenson ($170) scored significantly higher. Both have a similar look

Extra features

“Many expensive high chairs have added features that could make mealtimes more comfortable for you and your baby, such as an adjustable height and reclinable functionality,” says Kim.

But, once again, she says there are many cheaper models that can do the same job for a fraction of the price.

For example, the Bloom Fresco ($799) lets you recline and swivel it, and also adjust the height of the seat and footrest. But the $180 Steelcraft Sit and Relax scores higher overall and is reclinable, has a height-adjustable seat and footrest, and, unlike the Bloom, the seat can be lowered to become a low chair and the chair can be folded down.

Converts into a toddler/adult chair

It can definitely be worth paying more for a chair that your child will continue to use into their toddler years and beyond.

Kim says many ÌÇÐÄVlog members are particularly happy with models such as the Stokke Tripp Trapp with baby set ($578) which, although more expensive at first, can later be used as a children’s and adult’s chair, offering good value in the long run.

One parent, Megan, told us that she loves her Tripp Trapp so much she bought another one for her second child.

“100% worth it,” she says. “I love it. Not a bad word could be said about it. And I think I get more use out of it than a cheaper one.”

But if you don’t have that much cash to burn on a Stokke, there’s a Kmart dupe for just $149 that our experts also rate. We compare the two in detail in this article, or see our comparison of key points below.

Downsides of high-end high chairs

Impractical design

Although some of the features boasted by designer chairs sound impressive, they may not actually be very useful. Kim gives the example of the Bloom Fresco ($799), which is feature-packed but can be a drag to use.

“It looks very stylish, but it weighs 14kg, so it’s really difficult to move around,” she says.

What’s more, some of the features can actually be more hassle than they’re worth.

“The fact that the Bloom can swivel 360 degrees may sound cool, but if you haven’t locked the seat in place, you might find food flying into all four corners of your kitchen,” she says.

Difficult to clean

Attractive design features can sometimes be the very things that make a high chair a nightmare to clean. 

According to our experts, the $601 Bugaboo Giraffe (with baby set, pillow and tray) might look chic in your kitchen, but after the first few mealtimes it could become something of an eyesore as it is surprisingly difficult to clean. 

And even some of the products that look easy to clean can prove deceptively tricky in this regard. For example, the sleek wooden Leander chair ($430) scored just 20% for ease of cleaning, while the harness on the Stokke Tripp Trapp with baby set ($578) is prone to staining.

Safety concerns

Our safety testing has shown that price is no indicator of safety – our experts found both expensive and cheaper high chairs with both serious and minor safety failures.ÌýView our expert reviews to find the types of issues we found with things like trapping hazards, tipping risk or issues with harnesses.

Safer budget chairs

If safety is your priority and you’re on a budget, there are plenty of affordable models under $200 that score 100% in our safety tests, including:

• Kmart Prandium High Low Chair ($29)
• Kmart Anko Flat Fold High Chair ($45)
• Mocka Jenson ($170)
• 4Baby Orbit ($199)

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The post Are expensive high chairs worth the money? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

If you’ve reached the fun stage where bub is ready to try their first foods, you’ll need a high chair that’s safe, practical and easy to clean. And if you’ve started looking for one to buy, you’ll probably notice there’s an eye-watering range of options to choose from.Ìý

So how do you find the best high chair for your baby? And do you really need to spend hundreds of dollars on something that’s going to be regularly smeared with apple puree and spaghetti bolognese?Ìý

Our expert high chair testing

Our experts have done the hard work for you,Ìýtesting more than 30 high chairsÌýto help you find the best.

We look at things like safety, how easy they are to use and clean (yep, we literally smear them with baby food), how stable they are, and extra features such as if they’re adjustable or able to be converted into a toddler chair later.Ìý

We’ll show you how some of the most popular high chairs from expensive brands like Stokke and Bugaboo or budget favourites like Ikea rate against similar models.

Kmart Anko 2-in-1 high chair vs Stokke Tripp Trapp

For many people, the aesthetics of a high chair are just as important as its practicality and longevity. We are seeing more high chairs with sleek timber designs that can slot seamlessly into a modern home (particularly if you have an aversion to plastic), as well as high chairs that can be converted into toddler chairs when your bub gets a bit older.Ìý

If this design appeals to you, you may be considering the Stokke Tripp Trapp chair which is available in a huge range of colours and finishes. This chair has newborn and baby seat accessories for when your child is small (and can function as a high chair), and an adjustable seat and footrest you can use as your child grows.

We’ve reviewed the Stokke Tripp Trapp (with baby set, costing $578) in high chair mode, and it performs well, however our testers have noted some downsides in terms of ease of use, including that it’s a little fiddly to assemble.ÌýÌý

If you like the design of the Tripp Trapp but don’t have that kind of cash to splash, you may be considering Kmart’s look-alike chair, the Kmart Anko 2-in-1 high chair which we’ve also reviewed (and is also available at Target).Ìý

It’s a similar convertible-style high chair but costs just $149. It’s only available in a pale wooden finish, but at $400 less than the Tripp Trapp, this may be something you’re willing to overlook.

Overall, the Kmart chair compares favourably with the more expensive Stokke chair. It lost points in our testing due a minor safety failureÌý– the harness is not permanently attached, making it possible to remove it and forget to reinstall it (a problem that can be avoided through sensible use). However, our testers noted that the tray is easy to clean and it also has an adjustable footrest like the Stokke chair.

Based on our testing, it may be worth adding the Kmart chair to your shortlist. Check our detailed high chair reviews before you buyÌýto make sure you’re getting the best high chair for you and your child.

Is it worth buying the Bugaboo Giraffe?

Bugaboo is a brand that’s synonymous with high-end baby products with price tags to match, and theirÌýGiraffe high chair is no exception. Made from bio-based plastic and FSC-certified beechwood, it has a simple, sleek design and can also be converted into a toddler chair as your child grows.Ìý

But once you’ve purchased all the accessories needed to use the chair as a high chair, it will set you back over $600. Despite costing significantly more, it was outscored by both the Ikea Antilop and the Kmart Anko 2-in-1 high chair (and several other cheaper chairs) on overall performance and ease of use.

“Some expensive high chairs are real showpieces that can complement a modern kitchen, with striking wooden or slimline design,” says Kim Gilmour.

“However, our testing has shown that there are many similar options that are great performers that will do the job, so there’s no need to spend a fortune on this particular baby item.”Ìý

While it can definitely be worth paying more for a chair that your child will continue to use into their toddler years and beyond, ÌÇÐÄVlog has tested plenty of more affordable chairs than the Bugaboo Giraffe that meet this brief, such as theÌýKmart Anko 2-in-1 high chair mentioned above.Ìý

And if you’re just looking for a high chair to get you through the baby years, millions of parents the world over are fans of the Ikea Antilop high chair, which is praised for its simplicity and cheap price tag. Our experts have also uncovered look-alike high chairs from Anko, available in Kmart and Target that we’ve rated as even better buys.

Kmart Anko vs Ikea: Which high chair is best?

If you’re after the simple white plastic design that’s been popularised by Ikea’s Antilop high chair, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from.Ìý

The Kmart Anko Prandium high chairÌý(also available in Target) is a look-alike high chair close to the same price as the Ikea Antilop (just $29 for the Prandium compared to $25 for the Antilop) but outscored the Ikea chair by more than 10 percentage points. It passed all our key safety tests and our testers noted it was very easy to assemble, easy to clean and light. Some key benefits of the Kmart chair over Ikea’s Antilop high chair are:

• The Kmart high chair has a five-point harness, which is considered to be safer than the Ikea high chair’s three-point harness (and makes it harder for your baby to clamber out of when they get to that age).Ìý
• Its legs can be lowered to convert it into a low chair.

On the other hand, the Ikea high chair has the advantage of being available in pink and blue if you like a bit of colour. Various accessories such as extra padding for a backrest are also available.Ìý

However, although our testers say it’s light, inexpensive and easy to clean, the Ikea chair lost points on safety due to its three-point harness and a minor safety failure –Ìýlike the Kmart 2-in-1 high chair,Ìýthe harness isn’t permanently attached, making it possible to remove and then forget to reinstall. However, with sensible use this problem can be avoided. Our testers also noted that the tray is extremely hard to remove.

For detailed information and scores on both of these high chairs, see our high chair reviews.

The post How do cheap high chairs from Kmart and Ikea compare with pricier buys? appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• How to test cot mattress firmness at home
• The importance of a good fit
• Are second-hand cot mattresses safe?

For years, Australians have been able to legally buy unsafe cot mattresses as they didn’t need to meet any product safety standards. Finally, a new , with an 18 month transition period in place.

From 19 January 2026, suppliers must ensure that products such as cot mattresses are sufficiently firm and safe, and compliant with design, construction and performance standards. They must also ensure that the product has sufficient warnings and usage instructions.

The ÌÇÐÄVlog labs have been testing cot mattress firmness since 2016 and have seen improvements in that time. However, there are still unsafe mattresses out there that fail our tests.

Follow our guide for choosing the safest mattress for your little one.

How firm is firm?

Parents are advised by safety experts to always choose a ‘firm’ mattress to minimise the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI). But until very recently there was no agreed definition of ‘firmness’.

The good news is that there’s a standard test method for firmness, AS/NZS 8811.1:2013 Method 1: Sleep Surfaces – Test for firmness. And from 19 January 2026, cot mattress makers (or makers of any other infant sleep surface, such as a bassinet) will need to ensure their mattresses are sufficiently firm by complying with firmness requirements. In recent years we’ve seen an increasing number of manufacturers claim compliance, but not always. And before the mandatory requirements are in place, consumers still don’t know whether a cot mattress is safe.

When we test cot mattresses in the ÌÇÐÄVlog labs, we test them to this standard, so our cot mattress reviews can tell you which ones passed or failed our safety tests.

But if you’re wondering whether your current cot mattress is firm enough, we’ve got some tips for testing that at home.

How to test cot mattress firmness at home

Dr Ron Somers, one of the researchers behind the standard firmness test, has devised a DIY method for parents and carers which mimics the lab-based standard test for firmness.

This informal test method is for home use only and is not a replacement for the standard test for firmness (which uses a calibrated apparatus and conditioned lab environment). But it’s far better than not knowing how safe your mattress is at all. If your mattress fails this test then it is definitely not safe.

You’ll need:

• two unopened 1L milk or juice cartons with square bottoms (not rectangular bottoms)
• a marker
• a ruler
• a stack of 12 DVDs or CDs (not in their cases), protectively and tightly wrapped in cling film.

Method:

1. Mark one of the milk cartons with a line 40mm parallel from the base. Mark all four sides this way so they form a ring around the carton.
2. Place the tightly wrapped discs near the softest part of the sleep surface. Look for a ‘worst case scenario’, such as a fold or peak on the surface where a baby’s nose could be positioned.
3. Lay the marked milk carton sideways on the stack of discs so that it is centred, and have the marked line match up with the edge of the disc so you get a 40mm overhang. Make sure the overhang sits over the soft part of the sleep surface.
4. Lay the second carton sideways and stack it onto the first, making the stack as level as possible – this usually means selecting an off-centre position.
5. See whether the overhang touches the soft part of the sleep surface. If it does then the sleep surface is too soft to be safe.
6. Test a few locations on the mattress, especially anywhere where the child’s head might rest. A mattress should be firm enough in every location on the sleeping surface.

The importance of a good fit

It’s essential to cot safety that the mattress fits snugly in the cot, and that it meets the cot manufacturer’s recommended dimensions. 

There must never be more than a 4cm gap between the edge of the mattress and the adjacent cot side when the mattress is pushed to the opposite side. Gaps at the sides are a suffocation risk, just as firmness is.

But if a mattress fits too tightly, sections of it could deform and bunch up along the cot edge, making it easier for a child to climb out of the cot. It could also cause the dropside to not move freely, if there is one.

That’s why it’s important for manufacturers to at least put the length and width of the mattress on their label, and preferably the thickness, too.

The thickness of the cot mattress can also be the difference between a cot failing the mandatory standard for cot depth. The distance from the top of the mattress to the top of the lowest side when the dropside is closed should be at least 50cm when the base is in the lowest position, and at least 30cm in the upper position.

Material and quilting

As for mattress construction, you’ll find a huge variety including foam, latex and inner-spring. All of these sorts of mattresses are capable of passing the firmness test, so we can’t recommend one type over another, but an inexpensive and very basic mattress is just as likely to be as good as any other.

You’ll often find cot mattresses promising ‘comfort’ or ‘support’ for your baby. A baby is not built like an adult, and a firm mattress, not a cushioned one, is safest for your baby. Our tests show that cot mattresses which are flat and don’t have undulating or quilted features are less likely to fail our firmness test. Never use a mattress topper.

Warning about vacuum-packed cot mattresses

Many cot mattresses, regardless of their construction, are shipped in boxes where they’ve been vacuum-packed and rolled up. This makes transporting them more efficient. However, to ensure they’re at their firmest, they must be left on a flat surface for several days (at least) to fully expand.

Generally cot mattresses-in-a-box are no more or less firm than traditional types once they’ve expanded, but we have seen ones that retain their bent shape after a number of weeks prior to use. If this happens, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.

Note that once a cot mattress has expanded, it can no longer be vacuum-packed again.

Are second-hand cot mattresses safe?

New cot mattresses are best. However, if you’re getting one second-hand, it’s important to know that any previously-used mattress should be firm enough, clean and show no signs of dampness or mould. It’s also vital that it fits well in the cot. Red Nose provides more information on using .

Safe sleeping tips

There are more tips for keeping your cot safe on the , but the main things to remember are:

• Choose a standards-compliant cot – seeÌýourÌýcot reviewsÌýfor recommendations.
• Never wrap your mattress in plastic or any other unbreathable material.
• Soft toys and bumpers could pose a suffocation risk and should never be placed in the cot.
• Always place baby to sleep on their back, with feet at the base of the cot.
• Don’t use doonas/quilts, lambswool, thick blankets or pillows in the cot.
• Buy a firm, safe mattress.
• Keep baby’s head uncovered and away from blankets, which should be tucked in tightly. Alternatively, use a safe sleeping bag.

The post What to know before buying a cot mattress appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.

On this page:

• ÌýCot safety: What you need to know
• Ease of use
• Features to consider
• Second-hand and heirloom cots

If you’re also considering a portacot, see our portable cot buying guide. We explain why they’re handy when travelling, but aren’t a good long-term substitute for a regular cot.

ÌýCot safety: What you need to know

Cots sold in Australia in 2024 should be certified under mandatory Australian safety standards, but ÌÇÐÄVlog has found cots on the market that don’t comply. So take a tape measure with you to make sure any potential cots meet the safety guidelines.

From 19 January 2026, new mandatory Australian safety and information standards for sleep surfaces will be in place, so all new cots should comply.

Is the cot deep enough to stop a child from falling out?

The distance from the top of the mattress to the top of the lowest side when the dropside is closed should be at least 50cm when the base is set in the lowest position. The depth should be 30cm when the mattress base is in the upper position. The depth should also be at least 15cm when the dropside is down.

There shouldn’t be any footholds in the cot that your child could use to climb out.

Does the mattress fit snugly around all sides?

When you choose a mattress, make sure there is no more than a 4cm gap between the edge of the mattress and the adjacent cot side when the mattress is pushed to the opposite side, or 2cm on each side when the mattress is centred. Gaps at the sides are a suffocation risk – your baby could roll face-first into them. Mattresses should also be firm, as a soft or saggy mattress can also be a suffocation hazard.

Check ourÌýcot mattress buying guideÌýandÌýcot mattress reviewsÌýto make sure you buy the best option for your new cot.

Are there any head entrapment hazards?Ìý

Any large space or opening must be between 5–9.5cm to stop your baby from either getting caught or falling out.Ìý

Can you see any limb or finger entrapment hazards?Ìý

Smaller openings should not be between 3–5cm wide – which is wide enough for a child’s limb to get stuck – or be between 5–12mm wide, so little fingers don’t get caught.Ìý

Are there any sharp edges or protruding parts?

Check for any sharp edges or anything sticking out or pointing up that could hit a child’s head or snag on their clothing. Snagging clothing may not sound serious, but can be distressing for the child and in the worst cases, can end in strangulation.

Ease of use

This is really important – any seemingly small annoyance can become a major headache for a sleep-deprived parent!Ìý

• It should be low enough for you to bend comfortably over into the cot or your back might suffer.
• Or, if it has a dropside (a side of the cot that moves up and down) it should be secure and smooth to operate and not too heavy for you.
• Dropsides should be impossible for a child to open, but easy for an adult to operate – can you open it with one hand?Ìý
• Make sure the dropside is at least 5cm off the floor when lowered or feet will bang against the side or be crushed when it comes down.

Size

Considering they’re a bed for a small baby, some cots can be surprisingly big.Ìý

• Check the dimensions of the fully-assembled cot and how well it will fit into your nursery.Ìý
• Will it be too heavy to lift if need be?Ìý
• Will it fit through doorways if you need to move it to a different room?Ìý
• If the cot will be in your own bedroom for the first few months, space can be a serious issue – consider how it will fit in your room.Ìý
• You might also want space for other things, like aÌýchange tableÌýor a seat for feeding.

Assembly

Some cots take a long time to assemble and are fiddly with lots of parts – we note these in ourÌýcot reviews. While you may only need to assemble the cot once, it’s still a consideration.Ìý

ÌÇÐÄVlog tip: For safety, all components of the cot should be permanently fixed or require the use of a tool to take apart.

Features to consider

Teething strips

These are plastic strips on the wooden edges of the cot, such as the top of the dropside, so that neither the baby nor the cot is damaged if it’s chewed on (and it probably will be!).

Castors

Wheels make the cot easier to move around, but there should be lockable brakes on at least two wheels.

Sustainability

Look for claims of sustainable manufacture, such as the use of plantation orÌýÌýtimber.

Convertible cotsÌý

Making the change from cot to bed at the right time will help prevent injuries associated with the child falling out of the cot. Kids are ready to move to a bed when they can:

• stand confidently in a cotÌý
• shake the sides of a cotÌý
• make a serious effort at climbing out.

A cot that allows you to take the sides off and convert it into a small bed will give you more use over time. Some need the addition of bed rails at the sides for strength, which is fine as long as the mattress is firm and fits snugly against the rails and bed ends so there are no gaps (which are suffocation hazards).Ìý

Some cots can also be converted to a small lounge chair or desk, giving them even longer-term use.

Ease of assembly

Our expert testers rate how easy it is to put the cot together. While you won’t be doing this often, it’ll need to be done right the first time around.

Sometimes cots with many extra parts such as drawers are complicated or fiddly to assemble, and can also be quite heavy.

Second-hand and heirloom cots

From an environmental point of view, it’s good to reuse an old cot rather than buy a new one, and it can certainly save money. However, it might not be the safest option. In Australia, cots have been subject to a mandatory standard only since 1998, and our tests show that even since then, not every cot meets the standard. So before accepting a used cot, there are several things to consider.

Safety

Check that all parts are in working order, in particular whether the catches are too easy to undo by a child. Make sure it meets modern safety standards and whether there are instructions for assembly and safe use.

ÌÇÐÄVlog tip:ÌýYou can view test results for older, discontinued cots on our cot reviews page. On the left-hand side, click ‘Related Products’ and under Availability, tick ‘Discontinued’.

Mattress

We recommend buying a new, correctly-fittingÌýcot mattressÌýwhere possible, as an old mattress may be a SIDS or breathability risk if it’s too soft (or it could just be dirty!).

Toxic paint

If the cot was made or repainted before 1970, it might be painted with lead paint, which children can chew on and swallow when they’re teething. If in doubt, strip the cot completely and repaint it. The standard for new cots requires that any paint used is safe. In any case, a cot that old is unlikely to meet current standards and may have other hazards such as unsafe gaps or strangulation hazards. You’re better off with a more recent model.

The post How to buy the best cot for your baby appeared first on ÌÇÐÄVlog.