Best Cots For Newborns

A crib is an elevated bed for your child that prevents them from falling out. There are numerous styles available from cribs for bed to travel cots.

The mum tester Jasmin loved the cot's storage space that is perfect for sheets and blankets. It's also simple to set up and has an incline option to reduce reflux.

1. Mamas&Papas Franklin Cot Bed

Cot beds are often the perfect companion for parents. They keep baby snug, and (hopefully) asleep peacefully. When shopping for a there's a lot to consider, from spec and safety to design and style. And a good cot needs to last through the newborn stage and even toddlerhood, so long-term durability is crucial. This cot is sleek and durable and is in compliance with all of the latest regulations. It's also reasonably priced and includes a mattress.

Tested by: Gemma, mum to Boden 13 months old

Mamas&Papas is a master at designing practical yet stylish nursery furniture and this crib is not an exception. It's a chic option for your baby's first room, with a modern gray finish that will suit any colour scheme. It can also be transformed into a cool day bed or toddler bed for longer-term use. It also comes with two different heights for the base, making it more secure and easier to reach your child than a standard drop-side cot. The shaped base allows it to pass through the majority of doors, which is a great advantage for parents with a tight schedule. There's even a dresser and change table to keep all your newborn essentials close by.

2. SnuzFino Cot Bed

This cot will grow with your baby from birth to around four years of age. It has two mattress heights so you can begin with a high base and then lower as your baby develops and learns to sit up unaided. It was awarded Gold in the Mother&Baby awards 2024 for best cots for newborns crib, cot or Moses basket, and is a top choice for parents.

The slats of this cot are spaced closer apart than other models we have tested, which makes it more compact and ideal for smaller bedrooms. It also has a handy side door that lets you access it easily for feeding, nappies or changing. Parents loved how easy this cot was to put together, with our tester taking only 12 minutes to get it set up and ready for use.

When you are choosing a cot bed, look for ones that are safe. To prevent your baby's legs from getting trapped the cot should have bars no more than 6 centimeters apart. Check that the slats of your cot are securely attached to avoid any loose or fittings that are rusty.

A quality cot mattress is also key for your baby's comfort. Select mattresses made of latex-coated coir or pocket springs, which offer the best infant cribs support and do not sag. You should also consider investing in an waterproof mattress cover since any dirt can get into the mattress and cause your child to sweat or feel uncomfortable.

Some cots are also equipped with additional features that include gentle rocking movements to aid in settling your baby (like the SNOO Smarter Cot), adjustable inclines to ease reflux and storage for the nappy essentials (like the Mamas&Papas Lua Bedside Cot). These are great accessories, but only buy items that are safe and suitable for your child.

3. Graco SnuzFino Bedside Crib

If you want a bedside crib that can be used from birth and put close to your bed when the baby sleeps, this could be the one you're seeking. Its compact design can fit through standard door frames, and it weighs just 6 kg. This makes it simple to move about your home. It is also easy to get up and go down, making it perfect for nappy changing.

One of our mom test participants described it as "exceedingly simple to put together." Its lightweight design lets you easily move it from room to room or even take it on holiday if you wish. Its stand-alone design is a hit with many new parents who need to access their newborn easily during the first few months of parenting. It also comes with a reflux wedge cover and a fitted mattress and a mattress, both of which are useful features.

The included Toddler Kit will also allow it to be transformed into a toddler bed, which is great for parents because it will last for as long as your child requires it. It's a stunning cot with Scandi-inspired styles that will look stunning in your nursery. It's also good value for money if you consider how long it will be used for.

Another great option is this simple solid pine cot that is suitable from birth to 3 years and costs only PS372. Our testers were impressed by its elegant paneled design. It's easy to put together and comes with teething rail, a storage drawers and adjustable height settings. Its compact size makes it an ideal option for anyone who has a smaller space or with a sloped ceiling. Its sturdy stature will also ensure it stands the years and won't be susceptible to breaking like cot beds do.

4. Babyletto Bedside Crib

This crib sets in the bed lets parents snuggle their infant close just before bedtime. The NHS recommends that newborns be kept in a separate room for the first six month but many parents find their child close to them before bedtime soothing.

This cot from Babyletto is made from non-toxic paints in a vast variety of colors, meaning you'll be able to blend it into the decor of your nursery or bedroom. It's a great option for parents with low ceilings and do not want to take up too much space on the floor. It can be adjusted in 11 different heights, and tilted in four different positions. This includes an incline to help with reflux.

It's also a well-constructed design that will last into the toddler years. One tester for parents stated that her child slept in this cot for two babies and that it was in good enough condition to pass on to her newest.

Another plus is that the cot is small and compact, so it's easy to put together and move around as needed. It is a good choice for parents with little space. It can also be used as portable cot. It was easy to assemble and testers were impressed by the storage drawer that held everything your baby needs. It's expensive however, it's well worth the cost for the look and functionality. This cot doesn't come with a mattress, so you'll have to purchase one separately. We suggest settling for an airy, firm mattress that is snug to stop your child from being trapped. It should be a few inches smaller than the cot frame to avoid your child being capable of climbing out.

5. SnuzFino Bedside Cot

The SnuzFino is one of the most stylish cots we have on our list however it's not just about appearances. With two mattress height settings the cot can see your baby through the first 18 months. It can be converted into a toddler bed by adding an (available separately) toddler kit. The design is chic and timeless and our testers believed it would work in any nursery. Especially if you choose the matching changing table and wardrobe.

Whatever cot you choose, make sure it is in line with the guidelines applicable to your baby's age and home. The bars' spacing should be no more than 6.5cm (2 inches) that will keep children's heads from becoming stuck, and the surface should be smooth to prevent suffocation risks. Also, you'll need to purchase an appropriate cot mattress which should fit perfectly with no gaps at the edges and made of breathable materials to keep your baby's temperature regulated.

It's tempting, but carefully consider your budget and lifestyle before purchasing a cot that comes with additional features such as built-in storage, as well as side panels that can be removed from the bassinet (as the Mamas and Papas Lua Cot). The best infant cribs cots are simply designed for your baby to sleep safely and comfortably and you can usually find recommended cribs that offer plenty of storage space, without costing a lot.

If you're looking for a cutting-edge option then the SNOO Smart Sleeper cot has an inbuilt sensor that responds to your baby's cries and gently rocks them to sleep in a manner that mimics their mother's womb. The cost is a bit expensive, but it could be worth the investment for babies who are prone to fussiness.