How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will be the baby's bed until he or she is four years old. So you want it to be comfortable sturdy, safe and sturdy.
Check that the mattress is free of gaps, as they could pose an issue for babies who are suffocated. Also look for a cot that is able to convert into an infant bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is one of the lightest options available. It weighs 2.68kg and is nearly half the cost of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much easier to set up. The two poles are able to snap together like unusually large tent poles with shock cord to help keep them in place and slide into sleeves on their connected legs and you just have to place your feet inside them to create the sleeping area.
The only downside is that it can be a little tricky to dismantle it - you have to be extremely strong to remove the legs, and then it can take some effort to remove the frame itself. However, good cribs is a minor issue and it's the most lightweight cot I've ever tested.
Look at the range of cot beds available on the market if you're looking for something that is more durable and long-lasting. They're generally suitable from birth to about 2 years, so you'll need to purchase one bed for your child at some time if you choose this option.
Some children prefer to remain in a cot for longer than this, however most want to get their first single bed - which could be presented as a 'prize' for being a big sister or brother!
The Cot One is a comfortable option for infants and smaller kids, providing a great night's rest on any kind of ground even hard surfaces. It's easy to put together, has no small parts to get lost, and is solid enough to support the child's weight without worrying about unstable parts.
Double Cot
A double cot will be ideal for twins or siblings who require sleeping together. It offers the same safety features as a single cot, including side rails and a slatted base which can be lowered as your child grows. It also has multiple support areas, so you can tailor it to your child's needs. In addition, this is the only cot we've test that can accommodate multiple infants simultaneously and can accommodate two infants up to 325 pounds. and 72 inches long. This is a major selling point for families who will need to share space with more than one baby.
This cot comes with a wonderful feature that parents are sure to love. It can be transformed into a toddler's bed and then to a junior bed. This gives it a longer lifespan and means that you don't have to purchase a second bed. This is a great option for parents who have a tight budget and will save money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the preferred sleep option for the majority of health experts since they provide the best safety for your baby. They are designed to be used from the time of birth until your child is around 2 years old. They will then need to be converted into an infant bed or a junior bed.
This is the only cot that we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies from birth, and the highest for when your baby is able to roll over. This is an important aspect, as babies can choke if their heads become stuck between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
The only downside to this cot is that it's not particularly portable, as it requires an enormous amount of effort to fold, and can be a bit finicky when you try to put the legs in a proper position. Additionally, it's the largest cot on our list and can feel heavy to carry around if you have to move it from the storage area.
If you're looking for a cot that meets all the boxes, then look no further than this deluxe wooden cot. It's a stunning piece of furniture that elevates style, comfort and functionality in your living room. It looks gorgeous 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 are specially designed for newborns and provide an environment that is safe for sleeping to ensure your little one gets the sleep they need. The base can be raised to meet your baby's development stage. They are generally lower than beds. Many cots have drop sides that allow you to safely co-sleep with your newborn and makes it easier to have nighttime feedings. Some cots offer the option of removing a side completely and allowing you to use it as a bassinet. This is a safer alternative to co-sleeping with your child in your bed.
Certain cots come with additional features that simplify the lives of parents. These include an under-bed drawer which is ideal to store things in, rails that protect babies with teeth, and a riser leg which can create an angle that is suitable to help reflux babies. One of our top cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed that is stunning 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, and being able to be converted into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
A good night's sleep is crucial for all babies and it's worth your time looking for the ideal crib or cot for your infant. If you're struggling to decide what type of cot or crib is ideal for your baby, why not take part in an NCT New Baby Course and explore the different options with a certified group leader and other new parents?
When you are buying a cot, there are a variety of factors to consider. This includes the cot's depth and sides, its storage capacity, whether the cot has a removable hood, and if the cot comes with bedding. Double check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to ensure it is suitable for your nursery or bedroom. Make sure there is enough space to move around and that it is not too close to heat sources or windows.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-one cot if you are expecting twins, triplets, or more. These large cots can hold four babies at once and include bedding sets to aid in getting your child ready for bed. Some have a removable side rail to keep your baby close to you while they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might think about a product that has bunk beds that can be converted into one.
Many cots feature an adjustable mattress that can be moved up and down to suit your baby's height. This is a great option if you're worried your baby may slip during the night, and also beneficial for when your child is beginning to stand. Some cot mattresses are made of natural materials such as wool or cotton. However there are models made from polyurethane.
It is a good idea to select a cot that has mesh sides, which will allow air to circulate and help keep your baby cool. Be sure to check the bars too. They shouldn't be wider than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. You should also avoid cots that have feet and head boards that are solid because they can restrict limbs and clothing.
The ease of cleaning the cot needs to be taken into consideration. Check if it's machine washable, and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric and any removable parts. You'll also need to consider whether your standard bedding for your cot is suitable or if you'll have to buy some special sheets for travel cots.
Babies require a lot of toys such as nappies (which can quickly become a burden!) Bedding, clothes and toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that has storage. It can assist you keep everything organized and easily accessible.