How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns

A cot is the baby's first bed and will serve as their sleeping space until they are around four years old. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and safe.

Make sure that it has a gap-free mattress, since gaps could pose an suffocation hazard for infants. Also, look for a cot that converts into a toddler bed.

Single Cot

The OEX Ultralite foldable cot is one of the lightest options available. It weighs only 2.68kg and costs nearly one quarter less than the Helinox version I tested. It's also a lot easier to set-up - the two main poles snap together as do tent poles of unusually high quality with shock cords to hold them in position. Then they slide into sleeves on the legs of their linked legs. You simply need to put your feet into them to create the sleep surface.

It can be difficult to take apart. It is necessary to be strong enough to pull the legs out, and then it is an effort to take apart the frame. It's a minor issue and I'm convinced that it's the most lightweight cot that I've ever tested.

Take a look at the cot bed options available that is available if you're seeking something more durable and permanent. They're typically suitable from birth to about 2 years, so you'll need a single bed for your child at some time if you choose this option.

Some children will stay in the cot longer, but most will want to go to their first single mattress as an incentive for being a big sister or brother!

The Cot One provides a comfortable sleeping environment for infants and young children on any surface, even hard surfaces. It's also easy to install, with no small parts that can be lost, and feels safe enough to be held by a toddler with no wobbly bits or parts to worry about.

Double Cot

A double cot is perfect for twins who are just born or siblings who want to sleep close together. It comes with the same safety features as a single cot including side rails and a slatted base which can be lowered as your child grows. It also has multiple support areas so you can tailor it to your child's needs. Moreover, this is the only cot we test that can accommodate multiple infants at once and can accommodate two babies as big as 325 pounds. The cot measures 72 inches long. This is a great selling point for families who require space sharing.

This cot has a great feature that parents appreciate. It can be converted to a toddler's bed and later a junior bed. This gives it a longer lifespan and means you don't have to buy another bed. This is great for those with limited budgets and can save you money as your child grows.

The majority of health professionals recommend cot beds as they offer the highest level of security for your child. The cot bed is designed to be used up until your child reaches two years old. After that, it needs to be changed to a toddler or junior bed.

This is the only cot we tested with an adjustable base. The lowest setting is ideal from birth and the highest for when your baby is able to roll. This is an important aspect, as babies can choke if their heads are stuck between gaps or protrusions in the cot.

The only drawback is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a challenge to put the legs in the right position. Also, it is the largest cot we've reviewed and can feel heavy to carry around in the event that you need to move it away from the place where it is stored.

This deluxe wood cot is a great option if you're searching for a cot that has all the features. This gorgeous piece of furniture can be elevated in the look, comfort and functionality in your living room. It is beautiful in any nursery cots and will blend with a variety of different styles for kids' bedrooms after your baby is out of it.

Triple Cot

Cots are specially designed for newborns and provide an environment that is safe for sleeping to ensure that your baby gets the rest they require. They are usually lower than beds and the base is able to be raised to suit your baby's developmental stage. Some cots come with a drop side which allows you to safely co-sleep with your newborn and makes it easier for night time feedings. Some cots even offer the option of removing one of the sides completely, which allows you to use it as a bassinet, and make it a safer alternative to co-sleeping with your baby in your bed.

Some cots offers come with additional features that can make life a little easier for parents, such as a handy drawer beneath the cot that is perfect for storage or keeping 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 slope to help reflux babies. Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed is among our top choices. It's not just stunning with its minimalist Scandi design and oak finish, but it is also practical with three different heights for the mattress.

It's important that your baby gets a good night's rest. So, it is worthwhile to take the time to choose the Best cot newborn cradle or cot for your child. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the options available and discuss them with other parents and a qualified group leader.

There are a variety of aspects to consider when buying the cot you want, including the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, especially if it has drop sides for small infants or those with health issues, the cot's storage capacity and whether it comes with an adjustable hood, and if it comes with bedding. It is also worth checking the dimensions to ensure that your baby's cot or crib will fit in your nursery cots or bedroom, with plenty of space for movement, and not too close to heating sources or windows.

Quadruple Cot

If you're expecting twins or triplets then you'll need a quadruple cot. These large cots can hold four babies simultaneously and include bedding sets to help you get your child ready for bed. Many come with a removable side rail so that you can keep your baby close to you as they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might be interested in a model that has 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 is a great idea for parents who are concerned that your child could fall down in the night. It's also a great idea for when your child is beginning to stand up. A lot of cot mattresses are made from natural materials like cotton or wool, however there are models that use polyurethane foam too.

It's a good idea to choose a cot with mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Be sure to check the bars too. They shouldn't be wider than 6.5cm to stop your child from climbing out. Avoid nursery cots with solid feet and head boards, as they can trap clothing or limbs.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how easy the cot is to clean. Find out if it's machine washable and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric and any parts that are removable. Also, you should determine if your standard bedding for your cot fits, or if you have to purchase a specific travel cot sheet.

The cost of a diaper can quickly add up! Bedding, clothes and toys. The Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot is a cot that comes with storage. It can assist you keep everything organized and easily accessible.