How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will be the baby's bed until he or is four years old. Therefore, you want it to be comfortable solid and secure.
Make sure that the mattress is free of any 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 folding cot is among the lightest options on the market. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost a quarter of the price of the Helinox version I tried. It's also much simpler to set up. The two primary poles connect like unusually bulky tent poles with shock cord to keep them in order, then they slide easily into sleeves on their connected legs and you just have to put your feet on them to make the sleeping surface.
The only drawback 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. It's only a minor complaint, and I think it's the most lightweight cot I've ever tried.
If you're looking for something that's more sturdy and permanent, then take a look at the range of cot beds that are available on the market. If you opt for this option, you will need to buy a new bed for your child once they reach a few years.
Some children will remain in the cot longer, but most will want to move up to their first single mattress as a reward for being a big sister or brother!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleeping environment for infants and young children on any surface, even hard surfaces. It's also simple to set up, without small parts that can be lost, and it's solid enough to be able to keep a toddler in place without any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is ideal for twins who are just born or siblings who want to sleep together. It has the same security features as a single cot, including side rails and a slatted base that can be adjusted as your child grows. It also comes with numerous support areas, so you can find the perfect fit to meet your child's specific requirements. In addition, this is the only cot we've tested that's designed to accommodate multiple infants at once as it can hold two babies up to 325 pounds. and 72 inches long. This is a major selling point for families who require space with more than one child.
One feature that many parents appreciate about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and then onto a junior bed, giving it a longer life span and means that you won't have to buy another bed. This is great for those with limited funds and will save money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the most popular sleep option for the majority of health professionals since they provide the best safety for your baby. They are designed to be used from birth until your child is around 2 years old. They will eventually require conversion into the 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 important feature as children may choke if their heads get stuck between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
This cot's only downside is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a challenge to get the legs in place. It's also the biggest cot in our list and can be quite heavy to carry when you have to move it from its storage location.
This premium wood cot is the perfect option if you're looking for a cot with all the features. It is a beautiful piece of furniture that adds style, comfort and functionality in your living space. It looks stunning in any nursery and will blend with various designs for kids' bedrooms once your baby grows out of it.
Triple Cot
Cots offer the safety and security of a sleeping environment for your infant, ensuring that they get the rest they need. The base can be raised to accommodate the developmental stage of your baby. They are typically lower than beds. Many cots have a drop side which allows you to safely co-sleep with your newborn and makes it easier for night time feeds. Some cots even have the option to remove one of the sides completely, which could allow you to use it as a bassinet and provide a safer option to co-sleeping in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that make life easier for parents, like an easy-to-access drawer underneath the cot that is perfect to store items or keep your essential items close at hand, anti-bite rails that are placed on top of the cot for protection infants who are teething, and a detachable riser leg that can be used to create a slight incline to help reflux babies. One of our top cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed that is stunning to look at with its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish but it is also super practical with three different heights for the mattress, as well as being easily transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
It's important that your baby gets a good night's rest. Therefore, it's worth the time to find the best cradle or cot for them. Take part in an NCT New Baby Course to discover more about the options available and discuss these with other parents as well as an experienced group leader.
There are many things to take into consideration when purchasing a cot, such as the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, if it has an opening for a drop side for smaller babies or with health issues and the capacity of storage for the cot and whether it has an hood that can be removed and if it has bedding. Double check the dimensions of your baby's crib or cot to make sure it is suitable for your bedroom or nursery. Make sure there's cot for sale for your baby to move about and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.
Quadruple Cot
You'll require a four-in-one crib if you're expecting twins, triplets, or more. These large cots can accommodate four babies simultaneously and include bedding sets that make it easier to get your kids up and ready for bed. They also come with an end rail that can be removed, so you can place your child near you as they sleep. If you have kids of your own you might consider models with a bunk bed that can be transformed into one bed.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be moved up and down to accommodate your baby's height. This can be a good option if you're worried your baby may slip in the night, and it's also beneficial for the time when your child begins to stand. Some mattress for cots are made of natural materials such as wool or cotton. However, you can also find models made from polyurethane.
Choose a cot that has mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate, keeping your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They shouldn't be wider than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid foot and head boards, as they can trap clothing or the limbs of your child.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy the cot is to clean. Make sure it can be washed in the machine and what the care instructions are for the fabric and any removable parts. Also, you'll need to think about whether your standard bedding for a cot will work or if you'll have to buy some special travel cot sheets.
Babies need a lot of toys, including nappies (which can quickly accumulate!) Bedding, clothing and toys. A cot that has storage, such as the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will help you keep everything organized and easily accessible.