How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns
The cot will be the baby's bed until is four years old. Therefore, cots4tots.co.uk need it to be comfortable solid and secure.
Make sure that it has gaps-free mattresses, as gaps can pose an suffocation hazard for infants. Also look for a convertible cot.
Single Cot
The OEX Ultralite folding cot is among the lightest options on the market. It weighs 2.68kg and is nearly a quarter of the price of the Helinox version I tested. It's also much simpler to set up. The two main poles snap together like unusually large tent poles with shock cord to keep them in order and slide into sleeves attached to their legs. You just need to place your feet in them to make the sleeping surface.
It can be difficult to disassemble. You need to be strong enough to take the legs off and then it's quite a task to dismantle the frame. It's a minor issue and I believe it's the best lightweight frame I've tested.
If you're looking for something that's a little more robust and long-lasting, take an interest in the variety of cot beds that are available on the market. They're typically suitable from birth to around 2 years, so you'll need one bed for your child at some point if you decide to go with this option.
Some children prefer to remain in a cot longer than this, though the majority of them are eager to get their first single bed which could be presented as a 'prize' for being a big brother or sister!
The Cot One is a comfortable option for infants and smaller kids, allowing a good night's sleep over any type of ground including hard surfaces. It is easy to assemble and has no small pieces to get lost, and is sturdy enough to hold children without worry about moving parts.
Double Cot
A double cot is perfect for newborn twins or siblings who need to sleep close together. It comes with the same security features of a single cot. It has side rails, a slatted base that can be adjusted to meet the needs of your child's growing up. It also has multiple support areas, which means you can dial in the right fit to meet your child's specific needs. This is the only cot we tested that is designed to accommodate two infants at one time because it can support up to 325 pounds. The cot measures 72 inches long. This is a fantastic selling point for families that need to share space.
One of the things that parents appreciate about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed, and then into a junior bed, giving it an extended lifespan and ensuring that you don't have to buy another bed. This is great for those with limited budgets, and will save you money as your child grows.
The majority of experts in the field recommend cot beds as they offer the highest level of protection for your child. They are designed to be used from the time of birth until your child reaches 2 years old and will eventually require conversion into the toddler bed or junior bed.
This is the only cot we tested that has an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable from birth and the highest for when your baby can roll over. This is a crucial feature, as children can choke if their heads get trapped between gaps or protrusions in the cot.
This cot's only downside is that it can be difficult to fold and can be a challenge to get the legs in the right position. It's also the largest cot we've reviewed and can be quite heavy to carry around if you need to move it from its storage location.
If you're looking for a cot that ticks all the boxes, then you should look no further than this luxury wood cot. This gorgeous piece of furniture can be elevated in the look, comfort and functionality in your living room. It is beautiful in any nursery and will blend with a variety of different styles for kids' bedrooms after your baby is out of it.
Triple Cot
Cots provide the safety and security of a sleeping space for your baby, ensuring that they get the sleep they require. They are usually lower than beds and the base is adjustable depending on your baby's developmental stage. A lot of cots have drop-sides that allow you to sleep in a safe environment with your infant. It also allows you to feed your baby at night. Some cots offer the option of removing one side completely and allowing you to use it like an infant bassinet. This is a safer option than sleeping with your baby in your bed.
Some cots also have extra features that make life easier for parents. These include an under-bed drawer which is ideal for storage, rails that protect teething babies and a riser leg which can create a slight angle for babies with reflux. One of our cots we love 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 levels of height for the mattress, and it being able to convert into a toddler bed once your child is ready.
Sleeping well is crucial for all babies therefore it's worth the time to find the perfect cot or crib for your infant. Participate in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about the options available and discuss these with other parents as well as a qualified group leader.
When purchasing a cot, there are a variety of factors to take into account. This includes the cot's depth and sides, its storage capacity, if the cot comes with a hood that can be removed, and if the cot comes with bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot of your baby to ensure it is suitable for your bedroom or nursery. Be sure that there is enough room to move around and that it's not too close to windows or sources of heat.
Quadruple Cot
You'll need a four-in-one cot if you are expecting twins, triplets, or more. These large cots are designed to accommodate four babies at a time, and they come with bedding sets that make it easy to get your little ones ready for bed. Some also have an end rail that can be removed, so you can place your child close to you as they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might think about a product with a bunk bed which can be made into a single.
Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be adjusted upwards and downwards to meet your baby's height. This is a great option if you are worried that your child could fall down in the night. It's an excellent idea when your child begins to stand. A lot of cot mattresses are made from natural materials like cotton or wool, but there are some made of polyurethane foam too.
It's a good idea pick a cot with mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate and help keep your baby cool. Also, check the bars. They should not be larger than 6.5cm to prevent your child from climbing out. Avoid cots with solid feet and head boards, as they could trap clothing or the limbs of your child.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to clean. Check if it's machine washable, and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric as well as any parts that are removable. You'll also need to consider whether your cot bedding will fit or if you'll have to purchase specialized travel cot sheets.
Babies require lots of accessories including nappies (which can quickly add up!) bedding clothing, toys and more. A cot that has storage, like the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will help you keep everything organized and easily accessible.