Portable cots and play yards

Portable cots and play-yards: the basics

Portable cots and play-yards are not as sturdy as standard cots. They are designed for convenient, but not constant, use.

We recommend that when a baby will be left unsupervised, especially overnight, that the cot or other sleeping environment ought to comply with an Australian/New Zealand Standard.

Remember:

• all children’s furniture wears out over time – repair or replace at the first sign of wear.
• use the mattress supplied by the manufacturer – using a substitute can create a safety hazard.
• make sure the mattress fits snugly – there must be no more than 25 mm gap between the mattress and the side of the cot.
• check regularly for holes in the fabric or loose catches – repair or replace at the first sign of wear.

Before you buy a portable cot or play-yard

• Ask the shop assistant to show you how to fold and put it up.
• Make sure the catches lock firmly.
• Check that the mattress fits snugly.
• Does it have a removable base? If so, check that the base can be firmly secured.
• Does it have bars? If so, check that the space between bars is 50 mm-85mm.
• Ask the shop assistant if the product complies with a safety standard.
• Keep the receipt of purchase. Under the Consumer Guarantees Act your purchase must be of acceptable quality, last a reasonable time, and be safe.

Find out more about buying a regular cot.

How to use your portable cot or play-yard safely

Always check:

• it is assembled correctly – follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• it is used correctly – follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• locks and catches are firmly in place.
• the base cannot move apart or fall down.
• the mattress fits snugly.

Got a problem with a portable cot or play-yard?

If you have a safety problem with a portable cot or play-yard you can report it to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

Report an unsafe good.

Under the Consumer Guarantees Act you can get a refund, replacement or compensation if goods are unsafe.

Find out whether you can get a refund and how to do it.