01.Introduction
Test results for 12 bassinets, priced from $128 to $329
We weren’t pleased with the results of our bassinets testing. Based on our test method, we only recommend one of the 12 models, with two others worth considering. CHOICE calls for an Australian Standard tailored to bassinets to be developed, to avoid manufacturers certifying to other product standards which don’t necessarily reflect all the features of a bassinet. A specific Australian Standard will allow manufacturers to strive to meet the same requirements.
In lieu of an Australian Standard specifically for bassinets, CHOICE has developed an independent testing method inclusive of safety requirements and test procedure. We apply the same tests to all bassinets under assessment. The requirements and procedures followed by our tester are based on various existing Australian standards for children’s’ products (such as cots) as well as the Standards Australia Handbook, Product Safety Framework. Our expert tester sits on the Standards Australia Committee, which is responsible for these types of children's products. Some manufacturers disagree with our findings and claim to meet the requirements of other standards.
A bassinet is designed as an enclosed sleeping facility for a newborn. It is generally used until the infant is able to push on its hands and/or knees or roll over. Our bassinet tests assess:
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Ingestion or inhalation of small objects (choking).
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Contact with sharp corners, edges and points.
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Entanglement with projections, openings and cords (strangulation).
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Suffocation (breathable zones).
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Falling from a height (due to inadequate depth of enclosure).
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Entrapment in openings.
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Entrapment between moving components.
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Inadequate structural integrity.
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Strength.
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Inadequate stability.
While infants under about six months of age (the typical upper limit for using a bassinet) generally can’t roll over, sit or stand by themselves, they can still be surprisingly active and mobile. That’s why our test method looks at aspects like adequate breathable zones (in case the baby manages to roll face first against the edge) and falling from a height, even though these hazards may be less likely with babies of this age.
Models tested
How we test
Our test method is developed based on aspects of the following standards:
Australian/New Zealand Standards:
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AS/NZS 2172:2010 – Cots for household use – Safety requirements
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AS/NZS 2195:1999 – Folding cots – Safety requirements (superseded)
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AS/NZS 2195:2010 – Folding cots – Safety requirements
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AS/NZS 4385:1996 – Infants rocking cradles – Safety requirements
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AS/NZS ISO 8124.1:2010 – Safety of toys - Part 1: Safety aspects related to mechanical and physical properties.
Standards Australia Handbook:
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HB 295.1-2007 – Product Safety Framework, Part 1: Application guide
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HB 295.2-2007 – Product Safety Framework, Part 2: Hazard checklist
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HB 295.3-2007 – Product Safety Framework, Part 3: Generic requirement modules
19 Mar 2012
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The mandatory Australian standard aims to benchmark all cots to a safe level, but some failures slip through the cracks.
8 Sep 2011
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We tested 12 high chairs to Australian standard AS 4684:2009 to give you our recommended (and not recommended) buys.
24 Nov 2011
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Test results for 29 safety gates and barriers. We found several with gaps wide enough to trap a child's limb.
26 Apr 2012
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Babies need their nappies changed several times a day, and a good change table can make the job much easier - and safer.