How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is the baby's first bed and will serve as their bed until they reach around four years old. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and safe.
Check that the mattress is free of gaps, as they could pose an issue for babies who are suffocated. Also consider an adjustable cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is among the lightest options on the market. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost half the price of the Helinox version I tried. It's also much easier to set up - the two main poles snap together, as do tent poles of unusually high quality with shock cords to hold them in position. They then slide into sleeves on the legs of their linked legs. You just have to put your feet into them to make the sleeping surface.
The only negative is that it can be difficult to remove it - you have to be really strong to pull out the legs, and then it can take some effort to dismantle the frame itself. It's a minor issue and I believe it's the best lightweight cot I've ever tried.
If you're looking for something a little more robust and permanent, then take an examination of the various models of cot beds on the market. If you decide to go with this option, you'll need to buy a separate bed for your child after some time.
Some children will stay in the cot longer, but most will want to go to their first single mattress as a reward for being a big sister or brother!
The Cot One is a comfortable option for infants and small kids, allowing a good night's sleep over any type of ground including hard surfaces. It's also easy to install, with no tiny parts that could get lost, and it feels secure enough to hold a toddler without having any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is perfect for newborn twins or siblings who need to sleep together. It comes with the same safety features as a single cot. It has side rails, a slatted base that can be adjusted to fit your child's growing needs. It also has multiple support areas, which means you can find the right fit for your child's needs. In addition, this is the only cot we've tested that is designed to accommodate multiple infants at once and can accommodate two infants up to 325 pounds. and 72 inches long. This is a huge selling point for families who will need to share space with more than one child.
This cot has a great feature that parents appreciate. It can be transformed to a toddler's bed and then to a junior bed. This will give it longevity and means you don't need to purchase a new bed. This is great for those with limited budgets and can save you money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the preferred sleeping option of most health professionals since they provide the most safety for your baby. They are designed to be used from the time of birth until your child is approximately two years old. They then need to be converted into an infant bed or a junior bed.
This is the only cot we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies who are in a in a supine position. The highest setting is suggested when your baby is able to roll over. This is a crucial feature, as children can choke if their heads get trapped between protrusions or gaps in the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold, and it can be a hassle to put the legs in place. It's also the biggest cot on our list and is a bit heavy to carry when you have to transport it from its storage area.
This luxury wooden cot is the ideal option if you're searching for a cot that has all the features. It's a stunning piece of furniture that adds design, comfort and utility in your living space. It is also stunning in any nursery and blends well with different kid's bedroom styles after your child has outgrown it.
Triple Cot
Cots offer the safety and security of a sleeping environment for your infant, ensuring that they get the sleep they require. They are usually lower than beds, with the base being able to be raised depending on your baby's developmental stage. Many cots come with a drop-side that allows you to sleep in a safe environment with your newborn. It also makes it easier to feed at night. Some cots have the option of taking one side off completely, allowing you to use it as a bassinet. This is a safer option than sleeping with your baby in your bed.
Certain cots come with additional features that help parents. These include a drawer under the cot which is ideal to store things in, rails that protect babies with teeth, and an adjustable riser leg that can create an angle that can be used for babies with reflux. Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed is among our top choices. It is not only elegant with its minimalist Scandi design and oak finish, but it is also practical with three different height settings for the mattress.
A good night's sleep is essential for all babies and it's worth the time finding the right crib or cot for your infant. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the various options available and discuss these with other parents as well as a qualified group leader.
When you are buying a cot, there are many things to take into account. These include the cot's depth and sides as well as its storage capacity, if the cot has a removable hood, and if the cot has bedding. It is also worth making sure you are aware of the dimensions so that the crib or cot your baby is using will fit in your nursery/bedroom with enough space to move around and not too close to sources of heat or windows.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-1 crib if you're expecting twins, triplets or even more. These cots are large enough to accommodate four babies at once and come with bedding sets to help you get your kids to bed. Some also have a side rail that can be removed so you can place your child close to you while they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might think about a product with a bunk bed that can be converted into one.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to fit your baby's height. This is a great option if you're worried that your newborn might slip down at night, and it's also beneficial when your child is beginning to stand. Some crib mattresses are made from natural materials, such as wool or cotton. However, you can also find models made with polyurethane.
Pick a cot that has mesh sides. Mini Cot Bed allows air to circulate to keep your baby cool. Be sure to check the bars too. They shouldn't be larger than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. Avoid cots that have solid foot and head boards as they could trap clothing or legs.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy the cot 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 bedding for a cot will work or if you'll need buy some special travel cot sheets.
Babies need a lot of toys including nappies (which can quickly accumulate!) Bedding, clothes and toys. A cot with storage space, like the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will allow you to keep everything neatly organised and easily accessible.