Baby Furniture Guide – DreamFurniture Inspired


Baby Furniture Guide

Category: Cots

Standard Cot

Key Features / Description:

  • Classic rectangular shape, a nursery staple.
  • Typically features fixed sides for enhanced safety and stability.
  • Adjustable mattress base with 2-3 height positions to accommodate a growing baby.
  • Often includes teething rails on the long sides to protect the cot and baby’s gums.
  • Some models may offer an optional under-cot storage drawer.
  • Designed to fit standard cot mattress sizes.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood (e.g., Pine, Beech, Poplar).
  • SupaWood / MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) for panels or structural components.
  • Non-toxic, baby-safe paints and finishes.

Category: Cots

Sleigh Cot

Key Features / Description:

  • Distinguished by its elegant, curved headboard and footboard, resembling a sleigh.
  • Offers a more traditional, often ornate, aesthetic.
  • Adjustable mattress base with multiple height settings.
  • Includes teething rails.
  • Can be larger in overall dimensions than standard cots.
  • Many sleigh cots are convertible, transforming into a toddler bed or daybed.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood (often chosen for its ability to be shaped and finished beautifully).
  • SupaWood / MDF used for some paneling.
  • High-quality, non-toxic paints and stains.

Category: Cots

Convertible Cot (e.g., 3-in-1, 4-in-1, Lifetime)

Key Features / Description:

  • Versatile design that adapts as your child grows.
  • Common conversions: Cot → Toddler Bed (often with a safety rail) → Daybed.
  • “4-in-1” or “Lifetime” cots may also convert to a full-size single or double bed headboard/footboard (requires separate bed frame and mattress).
  • Adjustable mattress heights are standard in cot mode.
  • Teething rails for protection.
  • Conversion kits or additional parts may be required for some stages and are often sold separately.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood for durability and longevity through conversions.
  • SupaWood / MDF components.
  • Robust hardware for secure conversions.
  • Non-toxic, durable finishes.

Category: Cots

Oval / Round Cot

Key Features / Description:

  • Unique, contemporary design with soft, curved lines.
  • Creates a striking focal point in the nursery.
  • No sharp corners, which can be a safety advantage.
  • Adjustable mattress height.
  • Some models may convert to a toddler bed or small seating area.
  • Requires a specific oval or round mattress and fitted sheets.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood (often Beech, as it bends well).
  • SupaWood / MDF for formed components.
  • Non-toxic paints and finishes.

Category: Nursery Chairs

Rocking Chair (Traditional)

Key Features / Description:

  • Classic design featuring two curved bands (rockers) at the base.
  • Provides a gentle back-and-forth rocking motion, ideal for soothing baby.
  • Often features high back support and comfortable armrests.
  • Can be a timeless piece that moves beyond the nursery.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood frame (e.g., Oak, Birch, Rubberwood).
  • Seat and back can be plain wood, or upholstered with fabric/leatherette and padding for extra comfort.

Category: Nursery Chairs

Glider Chair

Key Features / Description:

  • Offers a smooth, horizontal gliding motion (forwards and backwards).
  • The base remains stationary while the seat moves.
  • Generally provides a quieter and often smoother motion than traditional rockers.
  • Typically features plush upholstery for comfort.
  • Often comes with a matching gliding ottoman (footstool).
  • Some models may include a locking mechanism to stop the glide.

Typical Materials:

  • Frame constructed from Solid Wood or metal.
  • Enclosed ball bearing mechanism for smooth gliding.
  • Upholstery: Microfiber, linen blends, polyester, leatherette.
  • Cushioning: Foam, polyester fiberfill.

Category: Nursery Chairs

Recliner Glider / Swivel Glider Recliner

Key Features / Description:

  • Combines the smooth gliding motion with a reclining backrest and often an extendable footrest.
  • Swivel function allows for 360-degree rotation (on swivel models).
  • Offers multiple positions for feeding, reading, relaxing, and napping.
  • Usually generously padded with supportive armrests.
  • Reclining mechanism can be manual (lever/handle) or powered.
  • Some may offer lumbar support.

Typical Materials:

  • Robust metal frame for reclining and gliding mechanisms.
  • Wooden structural components.
  • Upholstery: Durable fabrics like polyester, chenille, performance fabrics, or bonded leather/leatherette.
  • High-density foam and fiberfill for cushioning.

Category: Compactums

Compactum with Drawers / Dresser Style

Key Features / Description:

  • Functions as a changing table with integrated storage, similar to a chest of drawers.
  • Top surface is designed to safely hold a changing mat, often with raised edges or a removable topper.
  • Offers multiple drawers for organizing nappies, wipes, clothes, and other essentials.
  • Can be repurposed as a standard dresser once the baby outgrows the changing station.
  • Provides a sturdy and stable surface.

Typical Materials:

  • Solid Wood (Pine, Poplar, etc.).
  • SupaWood / MDF for a smooth finish and affordability.
  • Quality metal drawer runners (ball-bearing or soft-close).
  • Non-toxic paints and finishes.
  • Wipeable surface for changing area.