How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is the infant's first bed, and will be their bed until they are around four years old. You want it to be sturdy, comfortable and safe.
Make sure that the mattress is free of gaps as these can be an entrapment risk for infants. Also look for a cot that is able to convert to an infant bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is among the lightest options on market. It weighs only 2.68kg, and costs almost half the price of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much easier to set up. The two main poles snap together like unusually large tent poles with shock cords to keep them in order and then slide into sleeves that fit on their legs and you just have to place your feet in them to set up the sleeping surface.
The only downside is that it can be difficult to remove it - you have to be able to remove the legs, and then it requires some effort to dismantle the frame itself. However, this is a minor issue and it's the most lightweight cot I've tested.
If you want something more sturdy and durable, take an examination of the various models of cot beds that are available on the market. They're usually suitable from birth to around 2 years, so you'll have to buy one bed for your child at some point if you decide to go with this option.
Best cot for newborn will stay in the cot for longer, but most will want to go to their first single mattress - as a reward for being a big brother or sister!
The Cot One is a comfortable option for infants and small kids, allowing a good night's rest on any kind of ground even hard surfaces. It's also simple to install, with no small pieces that could be lost, and it feels safe enough to hold a toddler with no wobbly bits or parts to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is ideal for twins or siblings who need to share a bed. It comes with the same safety features as a single cot including side rails and an slatted base that can be adjusted as your child grows. It comes with multiple support areas so you can customize it to your child's specific needs. This is the only cot we tested that can accommodate two infants at a time because it can support up to 325 pounds. and 72 inches long. This is an excellent selling point for families who will need to share space.
One feature that many parents appreciate about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed and later into an adult bed, giving it an extended lifespan and meaning that you won't have to buy a new bed. This is essential for parents with tight budgets and could save you money in the future as your child grows into an adult.
Most health experts recommend cot beds since they provide the most safety for your child. The crib is designed to be used up until your child is 2 years. After that, it will need to be converted into a toddler or junior bed.
This is the only cot we tested with an adjustable base. The base is adjustable to the lowest setting for babies from birth, and the highest for when your baby is able to roll. This is a vital aspect, as babies can choke if their heads get stuck between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
This cot's only downside is that it isn't easy to fold, and it can be a hassle to get the legs into position. It's also the largest cot we've reviewed, and can be heavy to carry around if you need to move it from its storage area.
This deluxe wood cot is the perfect choice if you are looking for a cot that has all the features. This gorgeous piece of furniture will enhance design, comfort and function in your living room. It looks stunning in any nursery and will complement a variety of different designs for kids' bedrooms after your baby is out of it.
Triple Cot
Cots are specifically designed for babies and offer a safe sleeping space to ensure your little one gets the rest they require. They are usually smaller than beds and the base is able to be raised to suit your baby's developmental stage. Some cots come with drop sides that allow you to safely co-sleep with your newborn, making it easier to take nighttime feeds. Some cots allow you to remove one of the sides completely which could allow you to use it as a bassinet, and create a safer alternative to sleeping in your bed.
Some cots have additional features that simplify the lives of parents. These include a drawer under the cot that is perfect for storage, rails that safeguard babies who are teething, and a riser leg which can create a slight angle 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 different heights for the mattress, and being easily transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
It is essential that your child gets a good night's sleep. Therefore, it's worth the time to find the ideal cradle or cot for your baby. Attend an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the available options and discuss the options with other parents and an experienced group leader.
There are a variety of aspects to consider when buying a cot, including the depth of the cot and its sides, especially if it has an opening for a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues and the capacity of storage for the cot and whether it comes with an hood that can be removed and if it comes with bedding. It is also worth checking the dimensions to ensure that the crib or cot your baby is using will fit in your nursery or bedroom, with plenty of space for movement, and not too close to heat sources or windows.
Quadruple Cot
If you are expecting triplets or twins you'll require a quadruple cot. These cots are built to accommodate four babies at once They also come with bedding sets that make it easy to get your child ready to go to bed. Many also feature the option of a side rail that can be removed, so you can place your child close to you while they sleep. If you have other children You may want to look for a model with a bunk that can be transformed into one bed.
Best cot for newborn of cots come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to suit your baby's size. This is a great idea to consider if you're worried that your child might fall down at night. It's also a great idea for when your child begins to stand. Many cot mattresses are constructed out of natural materials, such as cotton or wool, however there are models that make use of polyurethane foam as well.
It is a good idea to select a cot that has mesh sides, which allows air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They should not be wider than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. It is also recommended to avoid cots with feet and head boards that are solid as they could trap limbs or clothing.
Another important consideration is how easy the cot is to clean. Check if the fabric can be machine washed and the care instructions for any removable parts. You should also determine whether your bedding for your cot fits, or if you have to purchase some special travel cot sheet.
Babies require a lot of accessories such as nappies (which can quickly accumulate!) Bedding, clothing and toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that comes with storage space. It will help you organize everything and easily accessible.