Sleeping on a cot can be an uncomfortable experience for some people. Cots are portable beds that are typically very basic, with a fabric sleeping surface stretched across a lightweight metal frame. They are designed to be compact and easy to transport or store, rather than for comfort. However, with the right cot and proper set-up, sleeping on a cot can be made more comfortable. Here we will explore the pros and cons of sleeping on a cot and provide tips for making a cot sleeping arrangement more comfortable.
Page Contents
The Pros of Sleeping on a Cot
There are some advantages to choosing a cot over a traditional bed:
Portability: Cots fold up into a compact size and are very lightweight, making them ideal for camping, military use, emergency shelters, and other situations where a portable sleeping solution is needed. They can be easily moved from place to place.
Space saving: In small spaces, a cot takes up less floor area than a bulky bed frame and mattress. Cots can be folded up during the day to free up living space.
Affordability: Basic cots are relatively inexpensive compared to regular beds. For those on a tight budget or who only need a temporary bed, a cot may be an affordable sleeping solution.
Elevated off the ground: Sleeping on a cot gets you up off a potentially cold, damp, or uneven floor. This can lead to a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Easy to clean: Cots have a simple design and fabrics that can easily be cleaned, disinfected, or aired out as needed. This makes them handy for camping and other situations where dirt or moisture is likely.
The Cons of Sleeping on a Cot
However, there are also some drawbacks associated with cots compared to beds:
Less comfortable: The thin, taut sleeping surface and lack of cushioning can lead to discomfort, especially for side sleepers. Pressure points along the hips and shoulders can become painful.
Cold: Being elevated off the floor means more exposure to cold drafts. There is air circulation underneath and around the cot that can make it cooler than sleeping on a mattressed bed.
Instability: Cot frames are not as sturdy and stable as a bed frame, and the sleeping surface sags in the middle without underlying support. This can make tossing and turning difficult.
Noise: Any movements on a cot cause the fabric to stretch and rub against the frame, making squeaking and creaking noises. This can disturb both the sleeper and anyone else within earshot.
Difficulty getting in and out: Cots are very low to the ground, usually around 6 to 10 inches high. Sitting up from a lying position or getting in and out can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Lack of amenities: Unlike a regular bed, a cot does not allow for a headboard, footboard, or attaching a nightstand, hooks, or other conveniences. Selections for sheets, blankets, and pillows may also be limited.
Tips for More Comfortable Cot Sleeping
While sleeping on a cot has its disadvantages, there are things you can do to maximize comfort:
Choose an appropriately sized cot: Make sure to pick a cot length that matches your height. Your feet should not hang off the end. Width should accommodate your sleeping preferences.
Add a cot pad: An eggcrate foam or self-inflating camping pad adds cushioning on top of the cot’s fabric. This helps alleviate pressure points.
Use adequate bedding: Layer enough blankets or a warm sleeping bag to prevent getting cold at night. A pillow for head and neck support is also important.
Elevate your head: Place a pillow or rolled up clothing under the cot’s head to create an incline. This makes reading and watching TV more comfortable.
Try a cot with thicker fabric: Some cots are designed with tighter-woven, more reinforced fabric that creates a firmer and more supportive sleep surface.
Position cot properly: Place your cot out of the way of cold drafts. Anchoring it against a wall adds stability. Orient it so you get in and out at the end, not the side.
Allow for an adjustment period: It takes time to get used to a new sleep set-up. Give yourself a few nights to adjust to sleeping on a cot before deeming it uncomfortable.
Cot vs Air Mattress
For portable or temporary sleeping, cots are not the only option. Inflatable air mattresses have become a popular alternative. Here’s how cots and air mattresses compare:
| Cot | Air Mattress |
|---|---|
| Very compact – easy to store and transport | More bulky, especially when inflated |
| No inflation required | Must be inflated, using lung power, pump, or electricity |
| Thin fabric can lead to discomfort | Air cushioning provides more padding |
| Elevated off floor | Lies on floor when inflated |
| Lightweight | Heavier, especially higher-end models |
| Very affordable | Higher prices, but more feature options |
| Minimal setup required | More time needed for inflation/deflation |
For car camping or very small spaces, a cot may be the better choice. For added comfort and amenities, an air mattress may be preferable.
Different Types of Cots
There are several varieties of cots available, built to suit different needs:
Standard cot: The most basic and affordable cot option. Typically a rectangular steel or aluminum frame with canvas or polyester fabric. Lightweight and folds up easily. Offers minimal creature comforts.
Camp cot: An enhanced cot with a heavier canvas fabric and a steel frame designed for durability. May have additional reinforcement to prevent sagging. Often includes storage pockets or a side table.
Military cot: Built to withstand rugged use in the field. Sturdy steel X-frame holds up to 300+ pounds. Fabric is durable and weather/insect resistant. Features may include increased height, storage organizer, and transport wheels.
Double wide cot: Extra width (40+ inches) accommodates two sleepers. Some models join two cots together, while others have one wide frame. Allows couples to sleep together.
Cot with mattress: Combines a typical cot frame with a fitted foam mattress for added comfort. Mattress may be removable for transport. Features help approximate a real bed.
Elevated cot: Built with long, angled legs that raise the cot 16 inches or more off the floor. Allows storage space underneath and increased airflow. Often used in hot climates.
Collapsible cot: Uses an accordion-style frame that collapses in on itself for compact storage and transport. Sets up quickly with no assembly required. May sacrifice sturdiness.
Hammock cot: Combines a cot with an enclosed hammock for cushioning. Fabric wraps around the frame to create a suspended sleeping surface. Provides comforting sensation of swaying.
Best Cots for Different Users
Certain cots are better suited for some users’ needs and preferences:
For campers: Camp cots offer adequate comfort with enhanced durability for outdoor use. Look for insect-proof fabric. Go bigger in size for car camping.
For kids: Low cots allow kids to get on and off easily. Look for a child-sized cot with playful colors/designs. Add a comfortable mattress topper for extra padding.
For guests: A spare cot works well for overnight guests. Look for one that sets up/folds up quickly and easily when needed. Sturdy steel frames support heavier adults.
For the elderly: Consider elevated cots for easier standing. Make sure the sleeping surface is firm and flat for ease of getting in and out of the cot.
For emergencies: Keep an emergency cot on hand for disasters or power outages when you need to sleep somewhere besides your bed. Focus on durability, portability and quick/easy setup.
For camping: Camping cots fold up small but provide supportive comfort on rugged terrain. Look for a design with plenty of legroom and storage pockets.
For travel: A lightweight, compact cot lets you sleep comfortably anywhere while saving on hotel costs. Get a quick-assembly cot that folds up to carry-on size.
For hunting/fishing: Outdoor cots allow you to nap and sleep well at your basecamp. Water-resistant fabrics and rust-proof aluminum frames hold up in wet conditions.
Top Rated Cots
Based on comfort, durability, value and owner satisfaction, here are some of the best cots currently available:
| Cot | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Coleman Trailhead II Cot | Steel frame; built-in side table; superior support; folds compactly |
| Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Cot | Reinforced design; 600 lb capacity; oversized dimensions; pre-attached carry bag |
| REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 | Durable steel frame; oversized; cot-height storage; large side pockets |
| Kamp-Rite Oversize Kwik Cot | Strong aluminum frame; 600 lb capacity; quick, simple setup; spacious; carry bag |
| Byer of Maine Easy Cot | Heavy-duty steel; tight, supportive fabric; resistant to corrosion; abundant storage |
These top-rated cots provide excellent full-length support in home, camping and emergency settings. Their durable, sturdy construction ensures years of reliable use. If choosing a cot for daily home sleeping, be sure to try it out in person for comfort.
Creating a More Bed-Like Cot
It’s possible to modify a standard cot to make it much more bed-like, increasing comfort substantially. Here’s how to transform a basic cot into a daily bed:
Add a mattress topper: Place a 2-4 inch thick memory foam, eggcrate or featherbed mattress topper over the cot’s fabric. This vastly improves cushioning.
Use a fitted sheet: For a true bed feel, outfit your cot with a properly-sized fitted sheet. It will hold any mattress toppers in place.
Attach a headboard: Screw a wooden or metal headboard onto a wall behind the top of the cot. This allows you to sit up comfortably.
Include bed rails: Clamp or strap removable metal bed rails onto a cot’s frame. This prevents rolling off and provides a secure feeling.
Elevate cot higher: Raise the cot by placing wood blocks under the legs. This makes getting in and out easier. 18-22 inches high is ideal.
Add side tables: Affix wooden shelves or small tables to the wall on either side of the cot at arm level. Use for books, water, alarm clocks, etc.
Use real bedding: Dress the cot with pillows, cushions, blankets and full-size sheets for a comfy bed-like feel. Choose breathable fabrics to prevent overheating.
With these enhancements, a cot can provide sleeping comfort similar to a real bed frame and mattress. The key is adding ample padding and conveniences to overcome the cot’s basic design.
Are Cots Bad for Your Back?
Cots have a reputation for being bad for your back. Is this concern justified or merely a misconception? The truth lies somewhere in the middle.
There are some aspects of sleeping on cots that can put strain on your back:
– Very thin padding – The taut fabric provides minimal cushioning for pressure points along the spine. Side sleepers are especially prone to waking up with stiffness or soreness.
– Sagging support – Many cots bow in the middle without enough underlying reinforcement. This improper spinal alignment can lead to back pain.
– Getting in/out – The ultra-low profile requires awkward maneuvering that twists the back as you mount or dismount the cot.
However, other factors indicate cots can actually benefit the back in certain cases:
– Elevates off cold floor – Getting your back up off a hard or damp surface helps reduce ache-inducing conditions.
– Encourages supine sleeping – The evenly-flat cot surface deters side sleeping in favor of back sleeping, which better aligns the spine.
– Adjustable height – Cots with multiple leg levels allow you to find an appropriate height to properly get in and out.
– Portable support – Having a familiar sleeping surface while traveling can minimize discomfort compared to hotel beds.
The impact of a cot on your back really comes down to choosing the right model and allowing time to adjust to the unique feel. Adding a mattress pad also helps approximate a more supportive mattress. Talk to a doctor if you have concerns aboutusing a cot with existing back problems. With prudent precautions, cots should not necessarily be ruled out for those with back pain.
Should You Buy a Used Cot?
When looking to purchase a cot, you may come across appealing deals for used cots. Should you consider a pre-owned model rather than buying new? There are pros and cons to going the used route.
Potential advantages of purchasing a used cot:
– Lower price – Used cots can cost significantly less, even when barely used. The more wear, the better the discount.
– Environmentally friendly – Reusing an existing cot stops it from ending up in a landfill and saves production impacts of a new cot.
– Vintage charm – Well-made older cots can have more character and sturdier craftsmanship than new budget models.
But there are also reasons to exercise caution when cot shopping:
– Unknown durability – It’s hard to gauge how much wear and tear a used cot has experienced. Problems may develop.
– Missing accessories – Important cot parts like bolts, nuts, pins or instructions may have gone missing over time.
– No returns – Used cots are generally sold “as is” with no option to return if you don’t like the model after trying it.
– No warranty – Any remaining warranty coverage is voided on resold used cots if issues arise down the road.
– Hygiene issues – Must thoroughly clean and sanitize a used cot to remove odors, stains and presence of bed bugs or dust mites.
If the right used cot comes along at a substantial discount from a trusted seller, it can be worth purchasing. But carefully inspect the cot in person before buying to check its condition. Overall, a new cot brings more peace of mind.
Conclusion
Sleeping on a cot has both advantages and disadvantages compared to a traditional bed. While less comfortable overall, a good cot can still provide a decent night’s sleep, especially with enhancements like mattress toppers added. The trick is choosing a high-quality cot suited to your needs and allowing time to adjust to the unique feel. With reasonable expectations and prudent precautions, a cot can deliver adequate rest in settings where portability and compactness are priorities.