How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is the infant's first bed and will be their sleeping space until they reach the age of four years old. You want it to be sturdy, comfortable and secure.
Make sure that it has gaps-free mattresses as gaps can pose the risk of suffocation for infants. Also, look for a cot that is able to convert into an infant bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is one of the lightest options on market. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost a quarter of the price of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much simpler to set up - the two main poles snap together as do tent poles of unusually high quality with shock cords to keep them in place. They then slide into sleeves that rest on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to put your feet in them to create the sleep surface.
The only drawback is that it's a little tricky to dismantle and you'll need to be really strong to lift the legs, and then it takes some effort to remove the frame. But that's a minor complaint and it's definitely the best lightweight cot I've tested.
If you're looking for something more sturdy and permanent, then take an interest in the variety of cot beds that are available on the market. They're generally suitable from birth to around 2 years old, which means you'll need to purchase one bed for your child at some point if you decide to go with this option.
Some children may stay in the cot for longer, however, the majority of children will want to go to their first single mattress as a reward for being a big brother or sister!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleeping environment for infants and young children on any surface, even hard surfaces. It's also simple to install, with no small parts that can be lost, and it feels safe enough to be held by a toddler without having any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is great for newborn twins or siblings who want to share a bed. It comes with the same security features as a single cot. This includes side rails, a slatted base that can be adjusted to suit your child's growing needs. It has multiple support areas so you can customize it to meet your child's requirements. In addition, this is the only cot we've test that can accommodate multiple infants simultaneously, as it can fit two babies as big as 325 lb. and 72 inches long. This is a major selling point for families that will need to share space with more than one child.
Mini Cot Bed that many parents love about this crib is that it can convert into a toddler bed, and then into a junior bed, giving it a longer lifespan and meaning that you won't need to purchase another new bed. This is essential for parents with tight budgets and could save you money over the long term as your baby grows into a young adult.
The majority of experts in the field recommend cot beds because they provide the most protection for your child. They are designed to be used from birth until your child is approximately 2 years old and will then need to be converted into a toddler bed or junior bed.
This is the only cot that we tested that has an adjustable base. The base is adjustable to the lowest setting starting at birth, while the highest setting is suitable for when your baby is able to roll over. This is an essential feature because children could choke when their heads are caught between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
The only drawback is that it isn't easy to fold, and it can be a hassle to put the legs in place. Additionally, it's the largest cot we've reviewed and is a bit heavy to carry around in the event that you have to move it far from its storage location.
If you're looking for a cot that ticks all the boxes, look no further than this luxurious wood cot. It's a stunning piece of furniture that elevates style, comfort and functionality in your living space. It also looks stunning in any nursery and blends well with a range of different styles for your child's bedroom after your child has outgrown it.
Triple Cot
Cots offer a safe and secure sleeping environment for your newborn to ensure they get the rest they require. The base can be adjusted to accommodate the developmental stage of your baby. They are generally lower than beds. Many cots have a drop side which allows you to sleep in a safe environment with your newborn, making it easier to take nighttime feeds. Some cots also have the option to remove one of the sides completely. This allows you to use it as a bassinet and provide a safer option to sleeping in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that simplify life for parents, such as an easy-to-access drawer underneath the cot which is ideal for storage or keeping your essential items close at hand, anti-bite plastic rails that are placed on top of the cot to protect infants who are teething, and a detachable riser leg that can be used to create a slight slope to help reflux babies. Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed is one of our top picks. It is not only stunning with its minimalist Scandi design and oak finish, but it is also extremely practical, with three different height settings for the mattress.
It's important that your baby gets a good night's sleep. So, it is worth your time to find the right cot or cradle for them. If you are trying to figure out what kind of crib or cot is ideal for your baby, why don't you attend an NCT New Baby Course and explore the different options with a qualified group leader and other parents who are new?
When you are buying a cot, there are a lot of things to take into account. This includes the sides and depth of the cot, its storage capacity, if it comes with a hood that can be removed, and if it comes with bedding. Check the dimensions of your baby's crib or cot to ensure it is suitable for your nursery or bedroom. Be sure that there is enough room to move around and that it is not too close to windows or sources of heat.
Quadruple Cot
If you are expecting triplets or twins, you'll need a quadruple cot. These cots are large enough to accommodate four babies simultaneously and come with bedding sets to help you get your child to bed. Many have a removable side rail to keep your child close while they sleep. If you have more than one child, you may think about a product that has a bunk bed which can be made into a single.
A lot of cots come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to fit your baby's size. This is a great idea if you're concerned that your newborn might slip down at night, and it's also beneficial for when your child is beginning to stand. Some mattress for cots are made of natural materials such as wool or cotton. However there are models made with polyurethane.
Choose a cot that has mesh sides. This allows air to circulate to keep your baby cool. Make sure you check the bars' length too and ensure that they do not be more than 6.5cm apart to stop your baby from escaping. Avoid cots with solid feet and head boards since they could trap clothing or the limbs of your child.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean. Make sure it's machine washable, and what the care instructions are for the fabric as well as any parts that are removable. You'll also have to consider whether your standard bedding for a cot will work or if you'll have to purchase special sheets for travel cots.
Babies need a lot of toys including nappies (which can quickly accumulate!) Bedding, clothing and toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that has storage. It can help you to keep everything organised and easily accessible.