How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is the baby's first bed, and will be their bed until they reach around four years old. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and safe.
Make sure that it has gaps-free mattresses, because gaps can be an suffocation hazard for infants. Also, look for a cot that converts into an infant bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is one of the lightest options on market. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost half the cost of the Helinox version I tried. It's also a lot 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 place. Then they slide into sleeves on the legs of their connected legs. It's all you have to do is put your feet into them to make the sleep surface.
The only drawback is that it's a little tricky to dismantle and you'll need to be able to remove the legs and then it requires some effort to remove the frame itself. However, that's not a major issue and it's the most lightweight cot I've tried.
If you're looking for something a little more robust and long-lasting, take an examination of the various models of cot beds on the market. They're generally suitable from birth to around 2 years old, which means you'll have to buy one bed for your child at some point if you decide to go with this option.
Some children are content to remain in a cot for more than this, however most want to move on to their first single bed which could be presented as a 'prize for being a big brother or sister!
The Cot One is a comfortable choice for babies and small kids, providing a great night's sleep over any type of ground including hard surfaces. It's easy to put together, has no small parts to break, 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 need to share a bed. It comes with the same safety features as a single cot, including side rails and a slatted base that can be lowered as your child grows. It comes with numerous support areas so that you can customize it to your child's needs. Moreover, this is the only cot we've tested that's designed to accommodate multiple infants simultaneously as it can hold two babies up to 325 lb. This cot is 72 inches long. This is a major selling point for families that require space with more than one baby.
One of the things that parents appreciate about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed and then onto an adult bed, giving it a longer life span and meaning that you won't have to buy a new bed. This is a great option for parents with limited budgets, and will save you money as your child grows.
Most health experts recommend cot beds because they provide the most protection for your child. The cot bed is designed to be used up until your child reaches two years old. After that, it will need to be converted into an adult bed or a toddler bed.
This is the only cot we have tested with an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies who are in the supine position. The highest setting is suggested when your baby can roll over. This is a vital feature because children could choke when their head is caught between gaps or protrusions within the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a challenge to get the legs in the right position. It's also the largest cot we've reviewed and is a bit heavy to carry around if you need to move it from its storage location.
This premium wood cot is the perfect choice if you are looking for a cot with all the features. This stunning piece of furniture will enhance design, comfort and function in your living space. It looks stunning in any nursery and will blend with various designs for kids' bedrooms after your baby is out of it.
Triple Cot
Cots provide an ensconced and safe sleeping space for your baby to ensure they get the sleep they need. They are typically lower than beds and the base is capable of being raised depending on your baby's developmental stage. Many cots have drop sides that allow you to co-sleep in a safe manner with your newborn and makes it easier to take nighttime feedings. Some cots allow the option of removing a side completely and allowing you to use it like an infant 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 an under-bed drawer which is ideal to store things in, rails that protect babies with teeth, and a riser leg that can create a slight angle for babies with reflux. Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed is one of our top picks. It is not only beautiful with its minimalist Scandi design and oak finish, but it is also extremely practical, with three different heights for the mattress.
Sleeping well is crucial for all babies and it's worth the time finding the right cot or crib for your infant. Attend an NCT New Baby Course to find out more about the various options available and discuss them with other parents and an experienced group leader.
When buying a cot there are many things to consider. best crib for newborn includes the sides and depth of the cot, its storage capacity, if it has a removable hood, and if it comes with bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to ensure it will fit in your bedroom or nursery. Make sure there is enough space for your baby to move about and that it is not too close to heat sources or windows.
Quadruple Cot
If you're expecting triplets or twins then you'll need a quadruple cot. These cots are large enough to accommodate four babies at once They also come with bedding sets that make it easy to get your child ready for bed. A lot of them have a side rail so that you can keep your baby close as they sleep. If you have children you might want to look for one with a bunk bed that can be converted into one bed.
Many cots feature an adjustable mattress which can be moved upwards and downwards to meet your baby's height. This is a great solution for parents who are concerned that your baby might fall down at night. It's also a great idea for when your child begins to stand. Many cot mattresses are made of natural materials such as wool or cotton, but there are some that make use of polyurethane foam too.
Pick a cot that has mesh sides. This allows air to circulate to keep your baby cool. Be sure to check the length of the bars as well, as these should not exceed 6.5cm apart to prevent your baby from escaping. Also, avoid cots with solid head and foot boards as they could restrict limbs and clothing.
Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy it is to clean. Find out if the fabric is able to be machine washed and the care instructions for any removable parts. You should also determine whether your cot bedding fits or if you'll need to purchase some special travel cot sheet.
Babies require lots of accessories, including nappies (which can quickly add up!) Bedding, clothing and toys. A cot with storage space, like the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will help you organize everything neatly and easily accessible.