How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is the baby's first bed and will be their sleeping space until they are around four years old. Therefore, you need it to be comfy, sturdy and safe.
Make sure that the mattress is free of gaps as these can be an issue for babies who are suffocated. Also look for a convertible cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is one of the lightest options available. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost a quarter of the price of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much easier to set-up. The two main poles snap together like tent poles that are unusually thick with shock cords to keep them in place. Then, they are able to slide into sleeves on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to place your feet on them to set up the sleeping surface.
The only negative is that it's difficult to remove - you need to be extremely strong to lift the legs and then it takes some effort to remove the frame itself. However, this is a minor issue and it's certainly the most lightweight cot I've tried.
If you're looking for something that's stronger and durable, take an interest in the variety of cot beds available on the market. If you decide to go with this option, you'll have to buy a separate bed for your child in some time.
Some children will remain in the cot longer but most will want to go to their first single mattress - as an incentive for being a big brother or sister!
The Cot One is a comfortable option for infants and smaller kids, allowing a good night's sleep over any type of ground including hard surfaces. It is simple to put together and doesn't have any small pieces to get lost, and is sturdy enough to hold children without worry about wobbly parts.
Double Cot
A double cot is ideal for twins who are just born or siblings who need to share a bed. It has the same safety features as a single cot. It has side rails, a bottom with slats that can be adjusted to fit your child's changing needs. It also has multiple support areas, so you can choose the ideal size for your child's requirements. This is the only cot that we tested that is designed to accommodate two infants at once and can hold up to 325 lb. and 72 inches long. This is an excellent selling point for families that will need to share space.
A great feature that many parents appreciate about this crib is that it can convert into a toddler bed, and then into an adult bed, giving it an extended lifespan and means that you won't have to buy a new bed. This is great for those who have a tight budget, and will save you money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the most popular sleeping option of most 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 need to be transformed into the toddler bed or junior bed.
This is the only cot that we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal for babies who are still in the in a supine position. The most extreme setting is recommended if your baby is able to roll. This is a crucial aspect, as babies can choke if their heads get trapped between protrusions or gaps in the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it isn't easy to fold, and it can be difficult to get the legs in place. It's also the largest cot on our list and can be quite heavy to carry around if you have to transport it from the 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 adds design, comfort and utility in your living room. It also looks stunning in any nursery and blends well with different styles of bedrooms for kids after your child has outgrown it.
Triple Cot
Cots are designed specifically for infants and offer a safe sleeping space to ensure your baby gets the rest they require. They are usually lower than beds and have a base that is adjustable to suit your baby's developmental stage. A majority of cots come with drop-sides that allow you to sleep in a safe environment with your infant. This allows you to feed your baby at night. via allow the option of removing a side completely, allowing you to use it like a bassinet. This is a safer option to co-sleeping with your child in your bed.
Some cots have additional features that simplify the lives of parents. There is an under-bed drawer which is ideal for storage, rails that protect babies with teeth, and a riser leg that can create a slight angle for reflux babies. One of our top cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed that is stunning to look at thanks to its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish but it is also very practical with three different heights for the mattress, and it being able to convert into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
A good night's sleep is essential for all babies, so it's worth spending your time looking for the ideal crib or cot for your baby. If you are struggling to determine what kind of crib or cot is best for your baby, why not take part in an NCT New Baby Course and explore the various options with a qualified group instructor and other new parents?
There are many things to consider when buying a cot, such as the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, especially if it has an opening for a drop side for smaller infants or those with health issues as well as the capacity of the cot's storage and whether it comes with a removable hood and if it comes with bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of your baby's crib or cot to make sure it is suitable for your bedroom or nursery. Be sure that there is enough room to move around and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.
Quadruple Cot
If you are expecting twins or triplets you'll require a quadruple cot. These cots are large enough to accommodate four babies simultaneously and include bedding sets to aid in getting your child ready for bed. They also come with the option of a side rail that can be removed, to allow you to place your baby near you as they sleep. If you have more than one child, you may want to consider a model with bunk beds which can be made into one.
A lot of cots come with an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to suit your baby's size. This is a great solution to consider if you're worried that your child could fall down in the night. It's an excellent idea when your child is beginning to stand. A lot of cot mattresses are made out of natural materials, such as wool or cotton, but you can find models that make use of polyurethane foam, too.
Choose a cot that has mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Check the bars as well. They should not be more than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid foot and head boards since they could trap clothing or limbs.
Another important consideration is how easy it is to clean. Check if it's machine washable, and what the care instructions are for the fabric as well as any removable parts. Also, you'll need to think about whether your existing bedding for a cot will work or if you'll need to purchase specialized travel cot sheets.
The cost of a diaper can quickly go up! bedding clothing, toys and more. A cot with storage space, such as the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot, can help you keep everything neatly organised and easily accessible.