best cots for newborns (
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A cot is a bed for your child with high sides to stop them from falling out. They come in a range of styles from bedside
cribs beds (bassinet-style cots that are attached to the side of your bed to allow safe co-sleeping) to travel cots.
The mum tester Jasmin loved the cot's storage space that is perfect for blankets and sheets. It's also simple to set up and includes an incline setting that can help alleviate reflux.
1. Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed
Cot beds are a parent's best friend. They keep baby safe and (hopefully) sleeping soundly. However, when you're looking for one, there's a lot to consider, from specs and safety to design and style. And a good cot needs to last through the newborn stage and even toddlerhood, so long-term durability is key. This cot is stylish and robust and is in compliance with all the current regulations. It is also reasonably priced and includes an extra mattress.
Gemma, mother of Boden 13 months old, tested the product.
This cot is an excellent example of how Mamas&Papas can create chic and practical nursery furniture. It's a chic option for your baby's first room with a contemporary gray finish that will suit any color scheme. It can also be converted into a cool daybed or toddler bed for long-term use. It has 2 different base height positions too which makes it easier to reach for baby and more secure than a traditional drop-side cot. It's shaped base allows it to pass through most standard doors and is a huge benefit for parents with a tight schedule. There's a matching changer/dresser to keep all the essentials for your baby close in your arms.
2. SnuzFino Cot Bed
This crib is designed to support your baby from newborn up to about four years old. It has two levels of mattress that allow you to start with a higher base and then lower it as the baby grows and learns to sit on their own. It was awarded Gold in the Mother&Baby awards 2024 for the best crib, cot or Moses basket and is a top pick for parents.
This cot is more streamlined than other models that we tested. It's also suitable for smaller rooms. It also has a handy side door that lets you get in easily for feeding, nappies and changing. Parents loved how easy this cot was to set up and our tester took only 12 minutes to get it ready to use.
Look for cot beds that conform to safety regulations. All
online cots must have bars that are no more than 6.5cm apart to ensure your baby's limbs cannot become trapped. Make sure the slats on your cot are securely fastened to prevent any loose or fittings that are rusty.
It is crucial that your baby sleeps on a comfortable cot mattress. Choose pocket springs or latex-coated Coir mattresses, since they provide the most support and don't shrink like foams. It's worth investing in a waterproof cover, too, as any soiling will go directly into the mattress and could cause your baby to sweat or be uncomfortable.
Some
online cots have extra features, such as adjustable inclines to ease reflux, as well as storage for nappy necessities (such as the Mamas&Papas Lua Bedside Cot). These are great additions, but only purchase items that are safe and suitable for your child.
3. Graco SnuzFino Bedside Crib
If you want a crib for your bed that can be used from birth and keep close to your bed while your baby sleeps, this one could be the one you're searching for. It's a compact design that fits easily through standard door frames and weighs just 6kg so it's easy to move around your home. It's also a breeze to get up and down, perfect for those nappy changes.
One of our mum testers described it as being "exceedingly easy to put together." Its lightweight design lets you easily move it from room to room or even take it with you on vacation If you'd like. Its design on its own is a hit with many new parents who require to be able to reach their baby easily during the first few months of parenting. It also comes with a reflux wedge cover and a mattress with a fitted cover, which are both useful features.
It can also be converted to an infant bed using the included Toddler Kit (PS70), which is great news for parents as it means it will last until your child is ready to move on from cot life. It's a gorgeous cot bed with Scandi-inspired looks that will look lovely in your nursery. It's also a good value if you consider how long it will be used for.
Another alternative is this simple solid pine cot that is suitable from birth to three years old and costs just PS372. Our testers loved its stylish paneled appearance. It's simple to put together and comes with an easy-to-use storage drawer, a rail for teething and adjustable height settings that are helpful for keeping your baby safe. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for those who has a smaller space or who has sloped ceilings. Its sturdy build means that it will last for a long time and not break like other cribs.
4. Babyletto Bedside Crib
This crib for bed is ideal for parents who want to cuddle their infant close to them before bedtime. The NHS suggests that babies be kept in a separate bedroom for the first 6 months but many parents find that having their child near them before bedtime soothing.
The cot comes in a variety of colors and non-toxic paints which means it can be customized to your bedroom or nursery decor. It's a good option for parents with low ceilings and don't want to occupy too much space on the floor. It can be adjusted to 11 different heights and can be tilted in four positions, including an incline that aids in reflux.
While it's attractive It's also a sturdy design that will last through the toddler years as well. One tester's mother said that her child had been sleeping in the cot for 2 babies and was still in good condition to pass it on to her younger.
Another benefit is that this cot is tiny and compact, so it's easy to set up and move around if required. It's a great choice for parents who have little space. It can also be used as a portable cot. Testers said it was easy to put together and loved the storage drawer for storing everything you need for your baby. It's a bit pricey however, it's well worth the cost for its style and practicality. The cot isn't equipped with a mattress, which means you'll need to purchase one separately. We recommend opting for a comfortable, airy mattress that is snug to prevent your child from being trapped. It should be a few inches smaller than the frame of the cot in order to ensure that your child is not capable of climbing out.
5. SnuzFino Bedside Cot
The SnuzFino is one of the most stylish cots we have on our list, but it's not all about appearances. This cot is designed to last for their first 18 months. It can also be converted into a toddler's bed by incorporating a separate toddler kit. The design is elegant and timeless and our test subject thought it would fit any nursery. Particularly if you opt for an accompanying changing table and wardrobe.
Whatever cot you choose, make sure that it complies with the regulations applicable to your baby's age and home. The bars' spacing should not exceed 6.5cm (two inches) in order to stop infants from getting their heads stuck. Additionally the surface shouldn't be rough to prevent the risk of suffocation. Also, you'll need to purchase an appropriate cot mattress that is ideally sized without gaps at the edges. It should also be constructed of breathable materials to ensure that your baby's temperature is kept in check.
It's tempting, but take a close look at your budget and lifestyle before purchasing a cot that comes with additional features, such as built-in storage, as well as removable bassinet side panels (as the Mamas and Papas Lua Cot). The best cots allow your baby to rest comfortably and safely. You can find all-in one cot beds with plenty of storage that won't cost a fortune.
If you're looking for a modern alternative then the SNOO cot with Smart Sleeper includes a built-in sensor that responds your baby's cry. It gently lulls into an identical way to their mother's womb. The cost may be a bit expensive however, for those who have a difficult time sleeping, it could be worth the investment.