How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot is the baby's bed until attains the age of four. You want it to be sturdy, comfortable and safe.
Check linked resource site has gaps-free mattresses, since gaps could pose a suffocation risk for babies. Also consider a convertible cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is one of the lightest options on the market. It weighs only 2.68kg, and costs almost half the price of 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 position. Then they slide into sleeves that rest on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to place your feet on them to make the sleep surface.
The only drawback is that it can be difficult to remove it - you have to be really strong to lift the legs, and then it requires some effort to take apart the frame. It's not a major issue and I'm convinced that it's the most lightweight cot that I've ever tested.
If you're looking for something more sturdy and permanent, then take an examination of the various models of cot beds that are available on the market. If you decide to go with this option, you'll need to purchase a separate bed for your child in several years.
Some children are happy to remain in a cot longer than this, but most are keen 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 set up, with no small pieces that could be lost, and it feels solid enough to be able to be held by a toddler without having any wobbly bits to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot is ideal for twins or siblings that need to share a bed. It offers the same safety features as a single cot, including side rails as well as a slatted base that can be adjusted as your child grows. It also comes with multiple support areas, which means 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 once because it can support up to 325 lbs. The cot measures 72 inches long. This is a fantastic selling point for families that will need to share space.
This cot has a fantastic feature that parents appreciate. It can be converted into a toddler's bed and then it can be converted into a junior bed. This gives it longevity and means that you don't have to purchase a second bed. This is a great option for parents with limited budgets and can save you money as your child grows.
The majority of health professionals recommend cot beds because they offer the highest level of protection for your child. They are designed to be used from the time of birth until your child is around 2 years old and will then need to be converted into a toddler bed or junior bed.
This is the only cot we tested with an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable from birth and the highest for when your baby is able to roll over. This is a vital aspect, as babies can choke if their heads get trapped between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it's not very portable, as it requires a large amount of effort to fold and can be quite fussy when you try to put the legs. Additionally, it's the largest cot on our list and may be a burden to carry around if you need to move it away from the storage area.
If you're looking for a cot that meets all the boxes, then look no further than this luxurious wooden cot. This beautiful piece of furniture can be elevated in the look, comfort and functionality in your living space. It looks gorgeous in any nursery and will blend perfectly with different styles for your child's bedroom when your child is old enough to outgrow it.
Triple Cot
Cots are designed specifically for infants and offer an ideal sleeping area that is safe to ensure your baby gets the rest they require. They are usually lower than beds and have a base that is adjustable to accommodate your baby's development stage. A lot of cots have an opening that allows you to sleep in a safe environment with your newborn and makes it easier to take nighttime feeds. Some cots allow 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 have additional features that make life easier for parents, such as a handy drawer beneath the cot that is perfect for storage or to keep your essentials close to hand, anti-bite plastic rails on the top of the cot to safeguard teething babies, and a removable riser leg that can be used to create a slight slope to help reflux babies. One of our top cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed It is gorgeous to look at thanks to its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish. It is also super practical with three different heights for the mattress, and it being able to convert into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
It is crucial that your baby has a restful night's sleep. So, it is worth your time to find the ideal cradle or cot for your baby. Take part in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the options available and discuss the options with other parents and a qualified group leader.
When you are buying a cot, there are a variety of factors to take into account. These include the dimensions of the cot's sides and depth as well as its storage capacity, if it comes with a hood that can be removed, and if it comes with bedding. It is also worth double checking the dimensions to ensure that the crib or cot your baby is using will fit in your nursery or bedroom, with plenty of room for movement and not too close to sources of heat or windows.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-1 crib if you're expecting twins, triplets or more. These large cots can accommodate four babies at once and come with bedding sets to make it easier to get your child ready for bed. Many come with a removable side rail to keep your baby close to you as they sleep. If you have children you might want to look for a model with a bunk bed that can be turned into a single bed.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be moved up and down to suit your baby's height. This can be a good option if you're worried that your newborn might slip down at night, and is beneficial when your child is beginning to stand. Some crib mattresses are made from natural materials like wool or cotton. However, you can also find models made with polyurethane.
Choose a cot that has mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate, keeping your baby cool. Check the bars as well. They shouldn't be larger than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid feet and head boards as they could trap clothing or limbs.
The ease of cleaning the cot needs to be considered. Make sure it's machine washable, and what the care instructions are for the fabric and any parts that are removable. Also, you should determine if your standard cot bedding fits or if you have to purchase a specific travel cot sheets.
Babies require lots of paraphernalia such as nappies (which can quickly add up!) Bedding, clothes and toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that comes with storage space. It will help you to keep everything organised and easily accessible.
