Since your baby is probably going to spend his or her first two or three years sleeping in a cot, buying the right one is a big decision. The cot you choose will need to be comfortable, safe, and go with your décor, and there are plenty of other things to consider.
Unless you are using a Moses basket or crib, your baby can sleep in his or her cot from the first day they arrive home from the hospital, although they may look quite tiny in it at first! Look for a cot that has an adjustable base and sides, so that you can get your baby in and out of it easily. It should also be sturdy and have strong slats that are closely spaced, and undamaged.
Some cots come with what is known as a ‘teething rail’ that prevents your baby from chewing the wooden frame. If you choose a large, heavy cot, it’s a good idea to get one with lockable castors, as moving it from room to room can be tricky.
Another option is to look for a cot bed. These are larger than ordinary cots, and can be transformed into a toddler bed when your baby outgrows the cot stage. That does mean that you will get more use out of it. They usually don’t have drop sides, and they can be quite bulky, so space and convenience could be an issue. Cots and cot beds can be expensive, but it is one item of baby furniture and equipment that is easy to clean.
The last option is the camp cot. These are lightweight and sturdy, easy to clean and come with several accessory options. They’re portable, because they fold up, but if you like a traditional looking nursery, they will look out of place, with their plastic or steel frames and their fabric sides.
