How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will be the baby's bed until attains the age of four. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and secure.
Check it has gaps-free mattresses as gaps can pose the risk of suffocation for infants. Also, look for a cot that can be converted into a toddler bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is among the lightest options on the market. It weighs only 2.68kg and costs nearly a quarter less than the Helinox version that I tested. It's also much simpler to set up - the two main poles snap together like unusually thick tent poles with shock cords to keep them in position. Then they slide into sleeves on the legs of their connected legs. You simply need to place your feet on them to make the sleep surface.
It's not easy to disassemble. It is necessary to be strong to remove the legs and then it's a bit of work to take apart the frame. However, that's not a major issue and it's certainly the most lightweight cot I've tested.
Look at the cot bed range that is available if you're looking for something that is more durable and long-lasting. They're typically suitable from birth to about 2 years old, so you'll have to buy a single bed for your child at some time if you choose this option.
Some children are content to remain in a cot longer than this, but 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 sleep for infants and small children on any surface, even hard surfaces. It's also simple to install, with no tiny parts that could get lost, and it feels secure enough to be held by a toddler without having any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is great for newborn twins or siblings who want to share a bed. It has the same security features as a single cot including side rails as well as a slatted base that can be adjusted as your child grows. It also has multiple support areas, so you can dial in the perfect fit to meet your child's specific needs. This is the only cot that we tested that is designed to accommodate two infants at a time, as it can hold up to 325 pounds. This cot measures 72 inches long. This is a big selling point for families that will require sharing space with more than one child.
This cot comes with a wonderful feature that parents appreciate. It can be converted to a toddler's bed and then a junior bed. This gives it a longer lifespan and means that you won't need to purchase a new bed. This is essential for parents with tight budgets and could save you money in the long run as your child grows into an adult.
The majority of health professionals recommend cot beds since they offer the highest level of safety for your child. The bed is designed to be used until your child reaches the age of 2 years. After that, it needs to be changed to a toddler or junior bed.
This is the only cot we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable for babies who are still in a in a supine position. The highest setting is recommended when your baby is able to roll over. This is a crucial feature, as children can choke if their heads get trapped between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
The only drawback is that it can be difficult to fold and can be difficult to put the legs in the right position. Additionally, it's the largest cot on our list and can feel heavy to carry around in the event that you have to move it far from its storage location.
If you're looking for a cot that checks all the boxes, then take a look at this deluxe wooden cot. It's a stunning piece of furniture that adds style, comfort and functionality in your living space. It looks gorgeous in any nursery and will blend 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 newborn and ensure that they get the rest they require. They are usually lower than beds and have a base that is able to be raised depending on your baby's developmental stage. Many cots come with drop-sides that allow you to sleep safely with your infant. It also makes it easier to feed at night. Some cots even offer the option of removing one of the sides completely, which allows you to use it as a bassinet, and create a safer alternative to sleeping in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that simplify life for parents, like a handy drawer beneath the cot which is ideal for storage or to keep your essential items close at hand, anti-bite rails at the top of the cot for protection infants who are teething, and a detachable riser leg that can be used to create a slight incline for babies with reflux. One of our favourite cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed, which is beautiful to look at thanks to its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish, but it is also extremely practical, with three levels of height for the mattress, as well as being easily transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
It is essential that your child gets a good night's sleep. So, it is worth the time to find the best cradle or cot for your baby. If you're struggling to determine what kind of cot or crib is best for your baby, why not take part in an NCT New Baby Course and explore the various options with a trained group leader and other new parents?
There are many things to take into consideration when purchasing a cot, such as the depth of the cot and its sides, especially if it has a drop side for petite babies or with health issues, the cot's storage capacity and whether it comes with an hood that can be removed and if it has bedding. Check the dimensions of the crib or cot of your baby to make sure it will fit in your nursery or bedroom. Be sure that there is enough space for your baby to move about and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-one crib if you're expecting twins, triplets or more. These large cots can accommodate four babies at once and include bedding sets to aid in getting your kids up and ready for bed. Many also feature the option of a side rail that can be removed, to allow you to place your child close to you while they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might be interested in a model with bunk beds which can be made into a single.
Many cots feature an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted up and down to suit your baby's height. This can be a good option if you're worried your baby could slip during the night, and also useful for when your child is beginning to stand. Some mattress for cots are made of natural materials such as wool or cotton. However you can also find models made of polyurethane.
It's a good idea choose a cot with mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They should not be larger than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. It is also recommended to be wary of cots that have feet and head boards that are solid as they could hold limbs or clothing.
The ease of cleaning the cot must also be considered. Find out if cheap cot bed is able to be washed in the machine and follow the care instructions for removable parts. You'll also need to consider whether your cot bedding will fit or if you'll need to purchase special travel cot sheets.
The cost of a diaper can quickly go up! bedding clothing, toys and more. A cot that has storage, like the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will allow you to keep everything organized and easily accessible.