Is there any better way to welcome a new child to your family than with a handmade gift? Whether you’re daddy, grandpa or Auntie Sue, a hand-crafted babies cot or crib is one of the most precious gifts that you can give to the new tike. Wooden dowel babies cots are not even a difficult woodcraft to create, given the use of a purchased set of crib hardware, but it is one that requires attention to safety and detail.

Your best bet is to purchase a set of plans for wooden dowel babies cots from a reputable source – a well-known wood crafts magazine for instance. Look for the reassurance that the plans for the cot meet or exceed all safety standards for babies cots and cribs, most especially that the wooden dowels are spaced no more than 2 5/8 inches apart.

The same holds true if you’re looking at used wooden dowel babies cots for purchase. Many older cribs and cots don’t meet the revised standards for safety and might present a safety hazard for your new child. Any openings between the wooden dowels or slats should be less than 2 5/8″ to prevent baby’s head or extremities from becoming trapped.

A crib or wooden dowel babies cot offers a clear view of your sleeping baby – and gives him a clear view of the room and his surroundings. If wooden dowels sound like a rather plain alternative for babies cribs, think again. Some of the most popular styles of wooden babies cots use wooden dowels for sides and ends. The single most popular babies crib and cradle style throughout history – the Jenny Lind crib – is technically a wooden dowel babies cot. The turned spindles that make the crib a Jenny Lind are nothing more than wood dowels that have been lathe-turned for decorative purposes.

Whether you choose to purchase a new wooden dowel babies cot, find plans to make your own or seek a used cot for your new baby, do keep in mind that safety is first. Besides the dowel spacing, also check to be sure that the mattress is a snug fit. Other safety issues to check: no loose pieces that baby might be able to pry or turn off, a smooth-sanded finish, lead-free paints and stains. Some little extras to keep in mind – a teething rail will prevent your little one from gnawing directly on the wood – good for your furniture, better for your child. Position the crib outside easy reach of windows, blinds, heaters or anything else that might present a risk of injury to your baby.

A wooden dowel babies cot can be a beautiful investment for your child’s room – just be sure that your beautiful investment is safe and sound for your baby’s health.