How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is a baby's first bed and will serve as their sleeping space until they reach the age of four years old. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and secure.
Make sure the mattress is free of gaps, as these can be a suffocation hazard for babies. 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 the market. It weighs only 2.68kg and is priced almost one quarter less than the Helinox version I tried. It's also much simpler to set up - the two main poles snap together like tent poles that are unusually thick with shock cords to hold them in position. Then, they are able to slide into sleeves on the legs of their connected legs. It's all you have to do is put your feet in them to create the sleeping surface.
The only drawback is that it can be difficult to take apart and you'll need to be able to pull out the legs, and then it can take some effort to remove the frame itself. It's only a minor complaint and I'm convinced that it's the lightest frame I've tested.
Take a look at the cot bed options available that is available if you're seeking something more robust and long-lasting. They're typically suitable from birth until around 2 years old, so you'll need to purchase one bed for your child at some point if you decide to go with this option.
Some children are happy to remain in a cot for longer than this, however the majority of them are eager to move on to their first single bed which can be presented as a "prize' for being a big sister or brother!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleeping environment for infants and young children on any surface, including hard surfaces. It's also simple to install, with no tiny parts that could get lost, and it feels solid enough to be able to keep a toddler in place without any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is perfect for twins who are just born or siblings who need to sleep close together. It comes with the same safety features as a single cot, including side rails as well as an slatted base that can be lowered as your child grows. It comes with numerous support areas so that you can tailor it to meet your child's requirements. This is the only cot we tested that can accommodate two infants at one time because it can support up to 325 pounds. This cot is 72 inches long. This is a major selling point for families who will require sharing space with more than one child.
One of the things that parents love about this crib is that it can convert into a toddler bed and later into a junior bed, giving it an extended lifespan and means that you won't have to buy another bed. This is ideal for families who have a tight budget, and will save you money as your child grows.
The majority of experts in the field recommend cot beds as they offer the highest level of protection for your child. best cot beds are designed to be used from birth until your child is around 2 years old. They will eventually need to be transformed into a toddler bed or junior bed.
This is the only cot that we tested with an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies from birth, and the highest for when your baby is able to roll. This is a crucial aspect as babies can choke when their heads are caught between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
This cot's only downside is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a hassle to put the legs in position. It is also the largest cot we've reviewed, and can be heavy to carry when you have to move it from its storage location.
This deluxe wooden cot is the ideal option if you're looking for a cot that comes with all the features. It is a beautiful piece of furniture that enhances design, comfort and utility in your living room. It also looks stunning in any nursery and will blend perfectly with different styles for your child's bedroom after your child has outgrown it.
Triple Cot
Cots are specially designed for babies and offer a safe sleeping space to ensure that your baby gets the rest they require. The base can be raised to meet your baby's development stage. They are usually lower than beds. Many cots come with drop-sides that allow you to sleep safely with your baby. This also makes it easier to feed at the evening. Some cots offer the option of removing one side completely, allowing you to use it as an infant bassinet. This is a safer alternative to co-sleeping with your child in your bed.
Certain cots come with additional features that help parents. They include an under-bed drawer which is ideal for storage, rails that safeguard babies who are teething, and an adjustable riser leg that can create a slight angle for reflux babies. One of our favourite cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed that is stunning to look at with its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish. It is also extremely practical, with three different heights for the mattress, and being easily transformed into a toddler bed when your child is ready.
It is essential that your child gets a good night's rest. Therefore, it's worth your time to find the best cradle or cot for your child. If you are struggling to decide what type of crib or cot is ideal for your baby, why not attend an NCT New Baby Course and explore the different options with a certified group leader and other new parents?
There are a variety of things to take into consideration when purchasing the cot you want, including the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, especially if it has a drop side for petite babies or health issues as well as the capacity of the cot's storage and whether it has an adjustable hood, and if it has bedding. Double check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to make sure it is suitable for your nursery or bedroom. Make sure there's enough space to move around and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-one cot if you are expecting twins, triplets or even more. These cots are large enough to accommodate four babies at once and come with bedding sets to make it easier to get your child ready for bed. A lot of them come with a removable side rail to keep your child close while they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might want to consider a model with a bunk bed that can be converted into one.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be moved upwards and downwards to meet your baby's height. This is a great option for parents who are concerned that your child might fall asleep in the night. It's an excellent idea when your child starts to stand. Many cot mattresses are made of natural materials such as cotton or wool, however there are models that use polyurethane foam as well.
It's a good idea to choose a cot with mesh sides, which will allow air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Be sure to check the bars too. They shouldn't be larger than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid foot and head boards, as they could trap clothing or limbs.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean. Find out if the fabric is able to be washed in the machine and follow the care instructions for any removable parts. You'll also need to consider whether your standard bedding for a cot will work or if you'll need buy some special travel cot sheets.
The cost of diapers can quickly increase! 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.