How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
A cot is a baby's first bed, and will be their sleeping space until they reach around four years old. Therefore, you need it to be comfy, sturdy and safe.
Check it has a gap-free mattress, since gaps could pose an suffocation hazard for infants. Also look for full report that can be converted into a toddler bed.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is one of the lightest options available 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 easier to set up - the two poles are able to snap together like unusually large tent poles, with shock cords to keep them arranged, then they slide easily into sleeves on their connected legs. All you have to do is to put your feet on them to make the sleeping area.
The only drawback is that it's difficult to remove - you need to be extremely strong to pull out the legs, and then it takes some effort to dismantle the frame itself. It's a minor issue and I believe it's the lightest cot I've ever tried.
If you're looking for something more sturdy and long-lasting, take an examination of the various models of cot beds on the market. If you decide to go with this option, you'll have to purchase a separate bed for your child after some time.
Some children may stay in the cot longer however, the majority of children will want to move 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, providing a great night's rest on any kind of ground including hard surfaces. It's easy to put together and has no small pieces to lose, and feels sturdy enough to hold the child's weight without worrying about wobbly parts.
Double Cot
A double cot is perfect for newborn twins or siblings who will need to sleep together. It offers the same safety features as a single cot including side rails and an slatted base that can be lowered as your child grows. It also comes with multiple support areas, which means you can dial in the perfect fit for your child's unique needs. Furthermore, it's the only cot we've tested that is designed to accommodate multiple infants at once as it can hold two infants up to 325 lb. and 72 inches long. This is a huge selling point for families who will need to share space with more than one child.
This cot has a great feature that parents love. It can be converted into a toddler's bed and later a junior bed. This provides it with longevity and means that you don't have to purchase a second bed. This is essential for parents with tight budgets and could save you money in the future as your child grows into an adult.
Cot beds are the most popular sleep option for the majority of health professionals since they provide the highest level of security for your baby. The crib is intended to be used until your child is two years old. After this, it will have to be converted into a junior bed or toddler bed.
This is the only cot we tested with an adjustable base. The base is adjustable to the lowest setting starting at birth, while the highest setting is suitable for when your baby can roll over. This is a crucial aspect as babies can choke when their heads are caught between gaps or protrusions within the cot.
The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a hassle to get the legs in place. Additionally, it's the largest cot we've reviewed and can feel heavy to carry around if you have to move it far from the place where it is stored.
This premium wood cot is a great choice if you are looking for a cot with all the features. This beautiful piece of furniture will elevate style, comfort and function in your living space. It looks gorgeous in any nursery and blends perfectly with different styles for your child's bedroom when your child is old enough to outgrow it.
Triple Cot
Cots are specially designed for newborns and provide a safe sleeping space to ensure that your baby gets the rest they require. The base can be adjusted to accommodate the baby's developmental stage. They are generally lower than beds. Many cots have an opening that allows you to safely co-sleep with your newborn, making it easier to have nighttime feeds. Some cots have the option of removing a side completely which allows you to use it as an infant bassinet. This is a safer alternative to co-sleeping with your child in your bed.
Some cots have additional features that simplify the lives of parents. They include a drawer underneath the cot that is perfect to store things in, rails that safeguard babies who are teething, and a riser leg that can create an angle that can be used for babies with reflux. One of our cots we love 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 levels of height for the mattress, as well as it being able to convert into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
Having good quality sleep is essential for all babies, so it's worth spending the time to find the perfect cot or crib for your newborn. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to find out more about the various options available and discuss them with other parents and an experienced group leader.
When purchasing a cot, there are a variety of factors to take into consideration. This includes the dimensions of the cot's sides and depth and storage capacity, if the cot comes with a hood that can be removed, and if the cot has bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to ensure that it will fit in your nursery or bedroom. Make sure there's enough space for your baby to move about and that it's not too close to heat sources or windows.
Quadruple Cot
If you're expecting triplets or twins, you'll need a quadruple cot. These large cots are designed to accommodate four babies at a time, and they include bedding sets that make it easy to get your little ones ready for bed. Many also feature the option of a side rail that can be removed to allow you to place your child near you while they rest. If you have children, you may want to look for models with a bunk that can be turned into an individual bed.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted to meet the size of your baby. This is a great idea if you're concerned that your baby may slip in the night, and is beneficial the time when your child begins to stand. Some mattress for cots are made of natural materials like wool or cotton. However, you can also find models made from polyurethane.
It's a good idea to select a cot that has mesh sides, which will allow air to circulate and help keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They should not be more than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. You should also 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 should be taken into consideration. Check if it can be washed in the machine and what the care instructions are for the fabric and any removable parts. You'll also want to check whether your bedding for a cot is suitable or if you have to purchase a specific travel cot sheet.
The cost of a diaper can quickly add up! Bedding, clothing and toys. A cot with storage, such as the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will allow you to organize everything neatly and easily accessible.