How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will serve as the baby's sleeping place until he or attains the age of four. Therefore, you need it to be comfy, sturdy and safe.
Check that the mattress is free of gaps, as these can be a suffocation hazard for babies. Also, look for a cot that converts into a toddler bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is among the lightest options available. It weighs only 2.68kg and costs nearly a quarter less than the Helinox version 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 hold them in place. Then they slide into sleeves that rest on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to put your feet into them to create the sleeping surface.
The only negative is that it can be a little tricky to dismantle and you'll need to be really strong to lift the legs, and then it takes some effort to dismantle the frame. However, that's not a major issue and it's certainly the most lightweight cot I've ever tested.
Take a look at the cot bed range on the market if you're seeking something more robust and long-lasting. They're generally suitable from birth to around 2 years, so you'll need one bed for your child at some point if you opt for this option.
Some children are happy to stay in a cot for 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 brother or sister!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleep for babies and young children on any surface, including hard surfaces. It's also easy to install, with no small pieces that could be 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 ideal for newborn twins or siblings who will need to sleep close together. cots offers has the same safety features of a single cot. This includes side rails, a slatted base that can be adjusted to meet the needs of your child's growing up. It has multiple support areas, so you can personalize it to meet your child's requirements. This is the only cot that we tested designed to accommodate two infants at a time, as it can hold up to 325 lb. This cot measures 72 inches long. This is a big selling point for families that require space with more than one baby.
This cot has a great feature that parents love. It can be converted to a toddler's bed and later a junior bed. This provides it with a longer lifespan and means that you don't have to buy another bed. This is a great option for parents who have a tight budget and will save money as your child grows.
Cot beds are the most popular sleeping option of most health experts since they provide the most safety for your baby. They are designed to be used from the time of 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 we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable starting at birth, while the highest setting is suitable for when your baby can roll over. This is a crucial feature as children may choke if their heads become trapped between protrusions or gaps in the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold, and it can be a hassle to get the legs into place. It's also the largest cot on our list and is a bit heavy to carry when you have to move it from its storage area.
If you're looking for a cot that checks all the boxes, you should look no further than this luxurious wooden cot. This gorgeous piece of furniture can be elevated in the look, comfort and functionality in your living space. It is beautiful in any nursery and can be incorporated into many different styles for bedrooms for children when your child is out of it.
Triple Cot
Cots are specifically designed for babies and offer an ideal sleeping area that is safe to ensure that your baby gets the rest they require. They are usually lower than beds, with the base being adjustable depending on your baby's developmental stage. A lot of cots have drop-sides that allow you to sleep safely with your baby. It also allows you to feed your baby at the evening. Some cots have the option of taking one side off completely, allowing you to use it as a bassinet. This is a safer option than sleeping with your baby in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that simplify life for parents, such as a drawer that can be placed beneath the cot which is ideal to store items or keep your essentials close at hand, anti-bite plastic rails that are placed on top of the cot to safeguard 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 that is stunning to look at with its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish but it is also very practical with three different heights for the mattress, and being easily transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
It is crucial that your baby has a restful night's sleep. Therefore, it's worth the time to find the right cot or cradle for your child. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the various options available and discuss the options with other parents and a qualified group leader.
There are a number of things to take into consideration when purchasing a cot, such as the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, 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 comes with an adjustable hood, and if it comes with bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to ensure that it is suitable for your bedroom or nursery. Make sure there's enough space for your baby to move about and that it is not too close to heat sources or windows.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-one crib if you're expecting twins, triplets, or more. These cots are large enough to accommodate up to four babies at one time They come with bedding sets that make it easy to get your baby ready for bed. A lot of them have a side rail to keep your baby close to you as they sleep. If you have more than one child, you may want to consider a model that has a bunk bed that can be converted into a single.
Many cots have 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 in the night, and is beneficial for when your child is beginning to stand. Many cot mattresses are made out of natural materials, such as cotton or wool, however there are some that make use of polyurethane foam as well.
Pick a cot that has mesh sides. This allows air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They shouldn't be larger than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. You should also be wary of cots that have solid head and foot boards because they can hold limbs or clothing.
Another thing to consider is how easy the cot is to clean. Make sure it's machine washable and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric and any removable parts. You'll also need to consider whether your cot bedding will fit or if you'll have to buy some special sheets for travel cots.
The cost of diapers can quickly go up! bedding, clothing and other toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that comes with storage space. It can assist you to keep everything organised and easily accessible.