How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will serve as the baby's bed until attains the age of four. You want it to be comfortable, sturdy and secure.
Check it has a gap-free mattress, as gaps can pose an suffocation hazard for infants. Also consider a convertible cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is among the lightest options on market. It weighs 2.68kg and is almost half the price of the Helinox version I tried. It's also much easier to set up - the two main poles snap together like abnormally burly tent poles with shock cords to help keep them in place and then slide into sleeves that fit on their legs. You just need to place your feet in them to create the sleeping surface.
It can be difficult to take apart. You need to be strong enough to remove the legs and then it's quite a task to dismantle the frame. But that's a minor complaint and it's the most lightweight cot I've ever tested.
Take a look at the range of cot beds available on the market if seeking something more durable and long-lasting. If you opt for this option, you will need to buy a separate bed for your child in some time.
Some children prefer to remain in a cot longer than this, but most want to transition to their first single bed that can be presented as a "prize for being the big brother or sister!
The Cot One provides a comfortable sleep for infants and small children on any surface, including hard surfaces. It's also easy to set up, without tiny parts that could get lost, and it's secure enough to be held by a toddler with no wobbly bits or parts to worry about.
Double Cot
A double cot will be ideal for twins or siblings that need to sleep together. It comes with 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 has multiple support areas, so you can personalize it to meet your child's requirements. This is the only cot that we tested that can accommodate two infants at a time because it can support up to 325 lbs. and 72 inches long. This is a big selling point for families that will need to share space with more than one child.
A great feature that many parents adore about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed and then onto an adult bed, giving it a longer life span and meaning that you won't need to purchase another new bed. This is important for those who are on a tight budget and will save you money in the future as your baby grows into a young adult.
The majority of health professionals recommend cot beds since they offer the highest level of safety for your child. The crib is designed to be used up until your child is two years old. After this, it will have to be converted to a junior bed or toddler bed.
This is the only cot that we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable for babies that are in the supine position. The highest setting is suggested when your baby is able to roll. crib sets is an essential aspect as babies can choke when their head is caught between gaps or protrusions inside the cot.
This cot's only downside is that it can be difficult to fold and can be difficult to get the legs in position. It is also the largest cot in our list and can be quite heavy to carry around if you need to move it from its storage location.
This deluxe wood cot is a great option if you're looking for a cot that has all the features. This gorgeous piece of furniture will enhance design, comfort and function in your living space. It also looks stunning in any nursery and blends perfectly with different styles of bedrooms for kids when your child is old enough to outgrow it.
Triple Cot
Cots provide the safety and security of a sleeping environment for your newborn to ensure they get the sleep they need. They are usually lower than beds and the base is adjustable to suit your baby's developmental stage. Many cots have an opening that allows you to safely co-sleep with your baby and makes it easier for night time feedings. Some cots also have the option to remove one of the sides completely. This can allow you to use it as a bassinet to make it a safer alternative to co-sleeping in your bed.
Some cots come with additional features that can make life a little easier for parents, such as a drawer that can be placed beneath the cot which is ideal for storage or keeping your essentials close at hand, anti-bite plastic rails on the top of the cot for protection teething babies, and a removable riser leg that can be used to create a slight slope for babies with reflux. Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed is among our top choices. It's not just stunning with its minimalist Scandi design and oak finish, but also practical with three different height settings for the mattress.
A good night's sleep is crucial for all babies, so it's worth spending the time to find the perfect crib or cot for your newborn. Take part in an NCT New Baby Course to find out more about the options available and discuss the options with other parents and a qualified group leader.
When buying a cot there are many things to consider. This includes the dimensions of the cot's sides and depth as well as its storage capacity, whether the cot has a removable 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 will fit in your nursery or bedroom. Make sure there's enough room to move around and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.
Quadruple Cot
If you're expecting triplets or twins then you'll need a quadruple cot. These large cots can accommodate four babies simultaneously and include bedding sets that make it easier to get your child ready for bed. Many also feature an end rail which can be removed to allow you to place your child close to you while they sleep. If you have other children, you may consider models with a bunk that can be converted into an individual bed.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress which can be moved up and down to suit your baby's height. cheap cot beds is a great idea if you are worried that your baby might fall asleep in the night. It's an excellent idea when your child is beginning to stand. Some cot mattresses are made of natural materials, such as wool or cotton. However there are crib sets made of polyurethane.
It's a good idea select a cot that has mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate and keep your baby cool. Make sure you check the bars' length too and ensure that they do not exceed 6.5cm apart to stop your child from escaping. Avoid cots with solid foot and head boards since they can entrap clothing or limbs.
The ease of cleaning the cot should also be considered. Find out if it can be washed in the machine and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric and any removable parts. You'll also need to consider whether your existing bedding for a cot will work or if you'll have to purchase specialized sheets for travel cots.
Babies require a lot of accessories including nappies (which can quickly become a burden!) Bedding, clothes and toys. A cot with storage, such as the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot, can help you keep everything neatly organised and easily accessible.