Best Cots For Newborns
A crib is a bed that you can place your baby that has high sides to stop them from falling out. They are available in a variety of styles ranging from bedside cribs (bassinet-style cribs that attach to the side of your bed for secure co-sleeping) to travel cots.
The mum tester Jasmin appreciated the storage compartment in the cot, which is ideal for sheets and blankets. It's also simple to set-up and has an incline that helps with reflux.
1. Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed
Cot beds can be the best friend of parents. They are a great way to keep your baby cozy and (hopefully), sleeping soundly. When shopping for a there's a lot to think about, from specifications and safety to design and style. A good cot has to last through the infant stages and toddlerhood, so longevity is key. This cot is sleek, sturdy and complies with the most recent standards. It's also affordable and comes with a mattress.
Tested by: Gemma, mum to Boden, 13 months
Mamas&Papas is adept at designing stylish and practical nursery furniture and this cot is not an exception. It's a stylish choice for your baby's first room and features a modern gray finish that will suit any style. It can also be transformed into a cool day bed or toddler bed for long-term use. It comes with two base height positions too making it easier to reach for baby and more secure than a traditional drop-side cot. Its unique shape allows it to pass through doors of all sizes, which is a great benefit for parents who are strapped for time. There's even a matching dresser/changer to keep your baby's essentials in one place.
2. SnuzFino Cot Bed
This cot is designed to follow your baby from the time of birth to about four years old. It has two mattress levels, so you can begin with a lower base and then lower it as the baby grows and learns how to sit up on their own. It was awarded Gold in the Mother&Baby awards in 2024 for the best crib, cot or Moses basket and is a top choice for parents.
The slats of this cot are positioned more apart than other models we tested and makes it more sleek and suitable for bedrooms with smaller spaces. infant cot bed has a handy side door that lets you access the room easily to feed and change nappies or change a nappy. Our tester only took 12 minutes to set up the cot.
When you are choosing a cot bed, look for ones that conform to safety regulations. All cots must have bars that are not more than 6.5cm apart to ensure your baby's limbs cannot become trapped. Check that the slats of your cot are securely fastened to avoid any loose or fittings that are rusty.
A good quality mattress for your cot is essential for the comfort of your baby. Choose pocket springs or latex coated coir mattresses, as these offer the best support and don't shrink like foams. It is worth investing in a waterproof cover as well, as any soiling will be absorbed directly into the mattress and cause your baby to sweat or be uncomfortable.
Some cots have extra features, such as adjustable inclines to ease reflux, and storage for diapers (such as the Mamas&Papas Lua Bedside Cot). These can be a wonderful addition, but remember to only buy additional items that fit securely and are suitable for your baby's.
3. Graco SnuzFino Bedside Crib
This crib is perfect for families who want to use it from the beginning and place it close to your bed while your baby sleeps. Its compact design fits into standard door frames, and weighs just 6 kg. This makes it simple to move about your home. It's also easy to climb up and down, making it perfect for changing nappy.
It's lightweight and portable, which means you can move it easily between rooms or even on holiday. Its standalone design is a favorite among new parents who want to easily access their newborn in the early stages. It also comes with an incline wedge cover and a mattress with a fitted cover that are both beneficial features.
It can also be converted into an infant bed using the included Toddler Kit (PS70), which is great news for parents because it means it will last until your child is ready to step away from cot life. This is a gorgeous crib bed with an Scandi look. It will look great in your nursery.
Another great alternative is this simple solid pine cot, which is suitable from birth to 3 years and costs just PS372. Our test subjects loved its elegant panelled design. It's easy to put together and comes with teething rail, a storage drawer and adjustable height settings. It's small dimensions make it a great option for those with low ceilings or small areas. Its sturdy stature also means it will stand the test of time and won't be susceptible to breaking as some cot beds are.
4. Babyletto Bedside Crib
This bedside crib is perfect for parents who wish to cuddle their infant close before bedtime. The NHS suggests that babies be kept in a separate room for the first six month but many parents find that having their child close before bedtime soothing.
This crib from Babyletto is made with non-toxic paints in a vast variety of colors, so you can blend it into your bedroom or nursery decor. It's a great option for parents with low ceilings and don't want to take up too much space on the floor. It can be adjusted to 11 different heights, and then can be tilted to four positions with an incline option that aids in reflux.
While it's attractive It's also a sturdy design that should last through the toddler years as well. One tester's parent said that her baby been sleeping in the cot for two years and was in good shape to pass it on to her youngest.
This cot is also compact and compact and easy to assemble and move around. It's an ideal choice for parents who have smaller spaces and can be used as a travel cot too. Testers said it was easy to assemble and loved the storage drawer for storing everything you need for your baby. It's not cheap but it's worth it for its style and practicality. You'll need to buy an additional mattress for this cot. We suggest settling for a firm, breathable mattress that fits snugly to stop your baby from getting suffocated. It should be a couple of inches shorter than the cot frame to ensure that your child is not able to climb out.
5. SnuzFino Bedside Cot
The SnuzFino is among the most stylish cots we have on our list however it's not just about appearances. With two height settings for the mattress this cot will carry your baby through the first 18 months and can even convert into a toddler bed by adding an (available separately) toddler kit. The design is timeless and chic and our test-run showed that it would suit any nursery, especially if you opt for a matching changing unit and wardrobe.
No matter which cot is chosen, make sure that it complies with the guidelines applicable to your baby's age and home. The spacing between bars should be no more than 6.5cm (2 inches) which will stop the baby's head from getting trapped. The surface should be smooth to prevent the risk of suffocation. You'll also have to purchase a suitable cot mattress, which must be a perfect fit without gaps at the edges and made from breathable materials that ensure that your baby's temperature is kept in check.
It's tempting, but you should be aware of your budget and lifestyle prior to purchasing a cot that comes with additional features, such as built-in storage or side panels for the bassinet that can be removed (as the Mamas&Papas Lua Cot). The best cots are simply designed to let your baby sleep comfortably and safely, and you can often find cribs that offer plenty of storage space, without costing a fortune.
If you're seeking a cutting-edge option then the SNOO crib with Smart Sleeper comes with a built-in sensor that responds to your baby's crying. It gently lulls the baby to sleep in a motion similar to their mother's womb. The price is high, but it might be worth it for fussy sleepers.