How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will serve as the baby's bed until is four years old. You want it to be sturdy, comfortable and secure.
Check it has gaps-free mattresses as gaps can pose a suffocation risk for babies. Also consider an adjustable cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is among the lightest options on the market. It weighs 2.68kg and is nearly half the cost of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much simpler to set-up - the two main poles snap together, like unusually thick tent poles with shock cords to keep them in position. They then slide into sleeves on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to put your feet in them to create the sleeping surface.
It's not easy to disassemble. It is necessary to be strong to take the legs off and then it's an effort to take apart the frame. But that's a minor complaint and it's the most lightweight cot I've ever tested.
Check out the cot bed range on the market if looking for something that is more durable and long-lasting. They're typically suitable from birth until around 2 years old, which means you'll need a single bed for your child at some point if you opt for this option.
Some children are happy to stay in a cot longer than this, however most are keen to get their first single bed - which could be presented as a 'prize' for being a big sister or brother!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleep for babies and young children on any surface, including hard surfaces. It is simple to put together and has no small pieces to get lost, and is sturdy enough to hold a child without worrying about moving parts.
Double Cot
A double cot is ideal for twins or siblings that require sleeping together. It comes with the same security features of a single cot. It has side rails, a slatted bottom that can be adjusted to fit the needs of your child's growing up. It also comes with numerous support areas, so you can find the right fit to meet your child's specific needs. This is the only cot we tested that is designed to accommodate two infants at one time, as it can hold up to 325 lbs. The cot measures 72 inches long. This is a great selling point for families that will need to share space.
This cot comes with a wonderful feature that parents are sure to love. It can be converted to a toddler's bed and later to a junior bed. This provides it with longevity and means you don't have to purchase a second bed. This is ideal for families with limited budgets, and will save you money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the most popular sleeping option for a lot of health experts since they provide the best safety for your baby. The bed is designed to be used until your child reaches 2 years. After that, it will need to be converted to an adult bed or a toddler bed.
This is the only cot we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies who are in the sitting position. The highest setting is recommended when your baby can roll over. This is an important aspect, as babies can choke if their heads get stuck between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a hassle to get the legs into position. Also, it is the largest cot on our list and can feel heavy to carry around if you need to move it far from the place where it is stored.
This luxury wood cot is the perfect option if you're searching for a cot that comes with all the features. This stunning piece of furniture will elevate the look, comfort and functionality in your living room. It is also stunning in any nursery and can blend perfectly with different styles of bedrooms for kids once your baby outgrows it.
Triple Cot
Cots provide an ensconced and safe sleeping environment for your newborn to ensure they get the sleep they need. They are typically lower than beds, with the base being capable of being raised to accommodate your baby's development stage. Some cots come with an opening that allows you to co-sleep in a safe manner with your newborn and makes it easier to have nighttime feeds. Some cots even offer the option of removing one of the sides completely. This could allow you to use it as a bassinet and make it a safer alternative to co-sleeping in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that can simplify life for parents, like an easy-to-access drawer underneath the cot, which is great for storage or to keep your essentials close at hand, anti-bite plastic rails at the top of the cot to safeguard infants who are teething, and a detachable riser leg that can be used to create a slight slope to help reflux babies. One of our favourite cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed It is gorgeous to look at thanks to its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish, but it is also super practical with three height settings for the mattress, as well as being easily transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready.
Having online cots is crucial for all babies therefore it's worth the time finding the right cot or crib for your infant. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to discover more about the available options and discuss the options with other parents and an experienced group leader.
When buying a cot there are a lot of things to take into consideration. These include the dimensions of the cot's sides and depth as well as its storage capacity, if it has a removable hood and if it includes bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot of your baby to ensure it is suitable for your bedroom or nursery. Make sure there's enough room to move around and that it's not too close to windows or sources of heat.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-1 crib if you're expecting twins, triplets or even more. These large cots are designed to accommodate four babies at once, and they include bedding sets that make it simple to get your little ones ready for bed. A lot of them have a side rail so that you can keep your baby close to you while they sleep. If you have children, you may prefer models with a bunk that can be transformed into one bed.
A lot of cots come with an adjustable mattress that can be moved up and down to accommodate your baby's height. This is a great option if you're worried your baby may slip in the night, and is useful for the time when your child begins to stand. Some mattress for cots are made of natural materials like wool or cotton. However there are models made with polyurethane.
It's a good idea pick a cot with mesh sides. This allows air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They shouldn't be larger than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid foot and head boards as they can entrap clothing or limbs.
The ease of cleaning the cot must also be considered. Find out if it's machine washable, and what the care instructions are for the fabric and any other parts that can be removed. You should also determine if your standard bedding for your cot fits, or if you have to purchase some special travel cot sheets.
Babies require a lot of toys, including nappies (which can quickly add up!) Bedding, clothing and toys. A cot with storage, such as the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot, can help you keep everything organized and easily accessible.