My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed: Travel Safety and Setup

Quick answer

Setting up the My Cot Pals Extra Long Portable Toddler Bed is straightforward, but a few key safety checks—like ensuring the legs lock fully and the fitted sheet stays snug—make all the difference for a worry-free travel sleep solution.

How to set up the My Cot Pals Portable Toddler Bed safely for travel

1. Unfold and lock the legs: Place the bed on a flat, firm surface. Pull the legs outward until you hear each one click into the locked position. Give each leg a gentle tug to confirm it’s secure—if a leg folds back easily, it’s not fully locked. Common mistake: assuming the legs are locked without checking. An unlocked leg can collapse when your toddler moves.
2. Attach the fitted sheet over the mattress pad: Stretch the elastic corners of the Nap time Lashes fitted sheet over each corner of the mattress pad. Smooth out any wrinkles so the sheet lies flat and taut. A loose sheet can create a suffocation hazard or become a trip hazard for a restless sleeper. Checkpoint: Run your hand over the sheet after attaching it—if you can easily lift it off a corner, re-secure it.
3. Place the removable pillow in the designated pocket: The pillow slides into a built-in pocket at the head of the bed. Insert it fully and smooth the fabric so there are no gaps. Do not add extra pillows or blankets inside the bed, as they increase the risk of suffocation for toddlers under 2. Safety note: The pocket keeps the pillow from shifting, but always remove the pillow if your child is under 12 months or rolls onto their stomach.
4. Position the bed away from walls and furniture: Place the cot at least 6 inches from any wall, nightstand, or curtain. This prevents your toddler from pushing off against a surface and tipping the bed, and it keeps cords or fabrics out of reach. Common mistake: pushing the bed flush against a wall for stability. That can actually create a gap where a limb could get trapped.
5. Perform a final stability check before bedtime: Press down firmly on the center of the mattress with both hands—the bed should not wobble or shift. If it does, re-check the leg locks and the surface underneath. A rug or carpet can sometimes prevent the legs from sitting flat. Takeaway: If the bed wobbles on carpet, place a thin plywood board or a firm mat under the legs to create a stable base.

Product facts

• My Cot® Pals Extra Long Portable Toddler Bed: The My Cot® Pals Extra Long Portable Toddler Bed includes a fitted sheet and removable pillow called Nap time Lashes. The fitted sheet keeps the sleeping surface smooth and secure, reducing the risk of loose bedding that could bunch up during the night.