COt

A cot is a small bed designed primarily for infants and young children. It typically has high sides to prevent a child from climbing or falling out. In many countries, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of Europe, the term cot is standard for this type of bed; in the United States, a similar piece of furniture is usually called a crib. Cots come in various forms, including portable and travel versions with collapsible frames and carry bags.

Design and materials vary, but most cots use wood or metal frames with a rigid base and slats for ventilation. Many cots offer adjustable mattress heights to accommodate a growing child, and some are convertible to toddler beds or daybeds. Accessories commonly include a fitted sheet and a waterproof mattress cover. A snug-fitting mattress is important to minimize gaps where a child could become trapped.

Safety and standards are central considerations. Guidance from pediatric and consumer safety organizations emphasizes a firm, flat sleeping surface and the absence of loose bedding, pillows, or stuffed toys in the cot. Cots should meet applicable safety standards in the country of use, and any of their parts should be free of sharp edges, splinters, or loose components. Drop-side rails, once common in some markets, are prohibited in many modern regulations due to entrapment risks, and regular checks for structural integrity are advised as the child grows and becomes more mobile.