Best Cots For Newborns
A crib is an elevated bed for your child that stops them from falling off. There are numerous styles available including bedside cribs to travel cots.
Mum tester Jasmin liked this cot's handy storage compartment to store blankets and sheets. It's also simple to set up and has an incline that helps with reflux.
1. Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed
Cot beds are a new parent's best friend, ensuring that the baby warm and (hopefully) sleeping peacefully. When shopping for a there's plenty to think about, from specifications and safety to design and. And a good cot needs to last through the newborn stage and toddlerhood, so longevity is essential. This cot is sleek, sturdy and meets all the latest guidelines. It's also priced reasonably, and comes with a mattress.
Gemma, mother of Boden aged 13 months has tested the product.
Mamas&Papas is a master at creating practical and stylish nursery furniture, and this cot is no exception. It's a modern option for baby's first bedroom, with an elegant grey finish that will suit any colour scheme. It can also be converted into a cool day bed or toddler bed for long-term use. It has 2 different base height positions too which makes it easier for babies to reach and safer than a traditional drop-side cot. It's shaped base allows it to fit through the majority of doors which is a major bonus for parents who are strapped for time. The dresser/changer is a perfect match to keep all the essentials for your baby close in your arms.
2. SnuzFino Cot Bed
This crib is designed to be used by your baby from the time of birth to around four years old. It comes with two mattress heights, so you can start with a higher base and then move down as your little one develops and learns to sit up on their own without assistance. It was awarded Gold in the Mother&Baby awards 2024 for best crib, cot or Moses basket, and is a top pick for parents.
The slats of this cot are spaced closer in comparison to other models we looked at and makes it more compact and ideal for smaller bedrooms. It also features a handy side door, allowing you to access it easily for feeding, nappies and changing. Our tester took just 12 minutes to set up the cot.
Find cot beds that conform to safety regulations. All cots must have bars that are not more than 6.5cm apart to ensure your baby's limbs don't get caught. Make sure that the slats of your cot are securely fastened to prevent any loose or fittings that are rusty.
top rated cots is also key for your baby's comfort. Choose pockets springs or latex coated coir mattresses, as these offer the best support and won't slide like foams. It is worth investing in a waterproof cover, too, as any soiling will get into the mattress and cause your baby to sweat or be uncomfortable.
Some cots come with extra bonuses like gentle rocking motions to help your baby settle (like the SNOO Smarter Cot) and adjustable inclines to help ease reflux, and storage for the nappy essentials (like the Mamas&Papas Lua Bedside Cot). These are fantastic additions, but only purchase items that are suitable and safe for your child.
3. Graco SnuzFino Bedside Crib
This crib is ideal for families who intend to use it right from birth and have it close to your bed while your baby sleeps. It's a small design that fits easily through standard door frames and weighs only 6kg, so it's easy to move around your home. It's also simple to get up and down from it, which is ideal for those diaper changes.
One of our mom test subjects described it as "exceedingly easy to put together." Its lightweight build means you can easily move it from room to room or even take it on holiday if you wish. Its stand-alone design is popular with new parents who want to be able to easily access their newborn in the early stages. It comes with a padded mattress and a reflux wedge cover, both of which are useful features.
The included Toddler Kit will also allow it to convert into a toddler bed which is great for parents as it will last as long as your child will need it. This is a gorgeous cot bed that has a Scandi look. It will look great in your nursery.
This solid pine cot is an excellent choice. It is suitable for babies to 3 years old, and costs just PS372. Our testers loved its stylish paneled design. It's easy to put together and comes with an easy-to-use storage drawer, teething rail and adjustable height settings that are helpful for keeping your baby safe. Its compact size makes it an ideal option for anyone with a smaller space or with a sloped ceiling. Its robust build also means it will stand the test of time and will not be susceptible to breaking like cot beds do.
4. Babyletto Bedside Crib
This crib in the bed allows parents to snuggle up their infant close just before the time to go to bed. The NHS recommends that babies be kept in a separate area for the first six months, however many parents find it soothing to have their child close prior to putting them to sleep.
This cot from Babyletto is made with non-toxic paint in a wide variety of colors, meaning you'll be able to match it to your bedroom or nursery decor. It's also a good choice for parents with ceilings that slope who don't want a cot taking up a lot of floor space. It can be adjusted in eleven different heights, and tilted to four different positions. This includes an incline for reflux.
It's also a sturdy product that will last into the toddler years. One parent tester stated that her child used the crib for two years and that it was in good enough condition to pass on to her youngest.
The cot is also compact and small which makes it easy to set up and move around. It's a great choice for parents with a limited space. It can also function as an cot that can be moved around. It was easy to put together, and testers loved the storage drawer, which held all of your baby's essentials. It is a bit expensive however it's a worthwhile cost due to the design and function. This cot doesn't come with a mattress, which means you'll need to purchase one separately. We recommend an airy, firm and well-fitting mattress to keep your child from becoming suffocated. It should be a couple of inches shorter than the cot frame to avoid your child being capable of climbing out.
5. SnuzFino Bedside Cot
The SnuzFino crib is among our most stylish, but it isn't just about appearances. With two height settings for the mattress the cot can see your newborn through their first 18 months and can be converted into an adult bed by adding an (available separately) toddler kit. The design is timeless and stylish, and our testers found it would look great in any nursery, particularly when you choose a matching changing unit and wardrobe.
No matter what type of cot you choose, make sure it is in line with the guidelines applicable to your baby's age and your home. The spacing between bars should not exceed 6.5cm (2 inches), which will prevent the baby's head from getting trapped, and the surface must be smooth to reduce suffocation risks. You'll also have to purchase an appropriate cot mattress which should fit perfectly with no gaps around the edges and made from breathable materials that ensure that your baby's temperature is kept in check.
Although it's tempting to purchase a cot with extra features like built-in storage drawers and removable bassinet sides (as with the Mamas & Papas Lua Cot) These should be considered in light of your budget and your lifestyle. The most ideal cots allow your child to rest comfortably and securely. There are all-in-one cot beds that have lots of storage space that don't cost a lot.
If you are looking for a modern option then the SNOO cot with Smart Sleeper comes with a built-in sensor that responds your baby's cry. It gently rocks into an identical way to the mother's womb. The cost might be a bit high however, for those with children who are fussy, it could be worth the cost.