How to Choose the Best Cot For Newborns

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

Check it has gaps-free mattresses, because gaps can be the risk of suffocation for infants. Also look for a cot that is able to convert to an infant bed.

Single Cot

The OEX Ultralite folding cot is one of the lightest options available on the market. It weighs just 2.68kg and is priced almost one quarter less than the Helinox version I tested. It's also much easier to set up. The two poles are able to connect like unusually bulky tent poles with shock cord to help keep them in place, then they slide easily into sleeves attached to their legs and you just have to place your feet inside them to make the sleeping surface.

The only drawback is that it can be a little tricky to dismantle it - you have to be really strong to pull out the legs and it requires some effort to dismantle the frame. It's not a major issue, and I think it's the most lightweight frame I've tested.

If you want something stronger and permanent, then take an examination of the various models of cot beds on the market. They're usually suitable from birth to about 2 years old, which means you'll need one bed for your child at some time if you choose this option.

Some children are content to remain in a cot for more than this, but the majority of them are eager to move on to their first single bed - which can be presented as a "prize for being a big brother or sister!

The Cot One is a comfortable choice for babies and small children, offering a wonderful night's rest on any kind of ground including hard surfaces. It is easy to assemble, has no small parts to get lost, and is sturdy enough to hold the child's weight without worrying about moving parts.

Double Cot

A double cot will be ideal for twins or siblings who need to share a bed. It has the same security features as a single cot including side rails as well as a slatted base that can be lowered as your child grows. It also comes with numerous support areas, so you can choose the right fit for your child's requirements. This is the only cot we tested designed to accommodate two infants at one time, as it can hold up to 325 lbs. and 72 inches long. This is a great selling point for families who will need to share space.

One of the things that parents adore about this cot is that it can be converted into a toddler bed and later into the junior bed, which gives it a longer life span and meaning that you won't have to buy a new bed. This is great for those with limited funds and can save you money as your child grows.

The majority of health professionals recommend cot beds because they provide the most security for your child. The crib is designed to be used up until your child reaches the age of 2 years. After that, it will need to be changed to a junior bed or toddler bed.

This is the only cot that we tested with an adjustable base. The lowest setting is suitable for babies from birth, and the highest for when your baby is able to roll over. This is a vital feature as children can suffocate when their heads are caught between gaps or protrusions inside the cot.

The only issue with this cot is that it can be difficult to fold, and it can be a challenge to get the legs into position. It's also the largest cot we've reviewed and is a bit heavy to carry around in the event that you have to move it from its storage location.

This luxury wood cot is the perfect choice if you are looking for a cot with all the features. It is a beautiful piece of furniture that adds design, comfort and utility in your living space. It is also stunning in any nursery and can blend well with a range of different kid's bedroom styles once your baby outgrows it.

Triple Cot

Cots are specifically designed for newborns and provide an ideal sleeping area that is safe to ensure that your baby gets the sleep they need. infant cot bed are usually lower than beds and have a base that is able to be raised to accommodate your baby's development stage. A lot of cots have drop-sides that allow you to sleep safely with your newborn. This also makes it easier to feed at the evening. Some cots have the option of removing a side completely, allowing you to use it like an infant bassinet. This is a more secure option than co-sleeping with your baby in your bed.

Some cots come with additional features that make life easier for parents, such as an easy-to-access drawer underneath the cot, which is great for storage or keeping your essential items close to hand, anti-bite plastic rails at the top of the cot to protect teething babies and a detachable riser leg that can be used to create a slight slope for reflux babies. One of our top cots is the Silver Cross Westport Cot Bed, which is beautiful to look at with its minimalist Scandi style and oak finish. It is also very practical with three height settings for the mattress, and being easily transformed into a toddler bed once your child is ready.

It is essential that your child gets a good night's sleep. Therefore, it's worthwhile to take the time to choose the ideal cradle or cot for your baby. Take part in an NCT New Baby Course to discover more about the options available and discuss the options with other parents and an experienced group leader.

There are a variety of things to consider when buying a cot, such as the dimensions of the cot as well as its sides, if it has an opening for a drop side for smaller babies or with health issues, the cot's storage capacity, whether it has an adjustable hood, and if it has bedding. Make sure you check the dimensions of the crib or cot for your baby to ensure it is suitable for your nursery or bedroom. Make sure there's enough space for your baby to move about and that it's not too close to windows or heat sources.

Quadruple Cot


You'll need a four-in-1 cot if you are expecting twins, triplets or even more. These large cots are designed to accommodate up to four babies at one time, and they include bedding sets that make it simple to get your baby ready to go to bed. They also come with a side rail that can be removed, which allows you to put your baby near you as they sleep. If you have more than one child, you might be interested in a model that has a bunk bed that can be transformed into a single.

Many cots have an adjustable mattress that can be moved upwards and downwards to meet your baby's height. This is a great option if you're worried that your baby may slip in the night, and it's also beneficial for when your child starts to stand. Many cot mattresses are made out of natural materials, such as cotton or wool, however there are models made of polyurethane foam, too.

Pick a cot that has mesh sides. This will allow air to circulate, keeping your baby cool. Make sure you check the length of the bars 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 could trap clothing or the limbs of your child.

The ease of cleaning the cot should also be considered. Find out if it's machine washable, and what the instructions for cleaning are for the fabric as well as any other parts that can be removed. You'll also need to consider whether your existing cot bedding will fit or if you'll need buy some special travel cot sheets.

Babies need a lot of accessories including nappies (which can quickly accumulate!) bedding, clothing and other toys. A cot with storage, like the Obaby Stamford Space Saver Cot will allow you to keep everything organized and easily accessible.