Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the parent's mattress and allows the baby to sleep nearby. They're a secure method of co-sleeping, and are ideal for mothers recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib extremely quick and simple to put together (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable and tiltable to an inclined position for reflux babies and is a great alternative for travel cots.
They're safe
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're often referred to are specially designed infant sleeping solutions that enable babies to sleep with their parents without risk of SIDS. They are similar to Moses baskets or the standard baby cot, however they are attached to the the bed of the parent and have one side that is open, allowing parents to access their newborn baby. These are great for families who wish to sleep together but are concerned about the risks of bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety of the bassinet or bedside sleeper, but CHOICE has found that when used properly they are safe and have a low incidence of injuries and accidents. These products are also a good choice for parents who are struggling with exhaustion from night feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can keep an eye on the baby and soothe them if necessary.
If you're looking for an cot for your bed that is secure, select one with a mattress that is sturdy and breathable. A mattress that is breathable can help regulate your baby's body temperature and help prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress is a good idea, as well as a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. You can purchase all these items on the internet and at stores that specialize in baby products. Do not make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They could have been recalled, damaged or are not in compliance with the safety standards.
A good quality bedside crib will be easy to put together and can be dismantled for storage. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions, which make it easier for children to sleep in a raised position or for parents with reflux. Cots For Tots come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them on a journey.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, particularly when using the right products. Start by removing any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys, and washing them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Then, vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying particular focus on the corners and crevices. A mattress protector can also aid in reducing the growth of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next step, use a soft washcloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain removal spray to wipe down the cot. Every now and then, dampen a clean cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surface clean. Use a gentle scrub brush to eliminate staining from the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate any lingering odors. Test the cleaning solution on a small portion of the mattress before using it.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot when it has been taken apart. You can even use a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed from wood, you can disinfect it using a mix of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Take a small sample of wood to ensure it will not be damaged. Then apply the solution using a soft cloth, and allow it to dry before putting it back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is a specially designed infant sleeping solution that allows your child to sleep next to your bed. These cribs are lightweight, compact and easy to move around. They're also a great choice when you're limited on space in your home or if you're planning to travel with your baby.
Bedside cribs, in contrast to regular cribs, are designed to attach on the sides of your mattress, so that you can easily raise and lower your baby to feed them at night or soothe. They are made with a removable or drop-down side for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can be converted into full cot-beds as your child grows. This provides you with more longevity and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them perfect for travel. "It's very small and compact which means it can fit into its own travel bag and be carried around the house easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it upstairs and down easily."
The Shnuggle Air on the side of the crib is another lightweight option which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Gulhan Arapoglu agrees that it's simple to transport, and is solid. She also says it's a bit bigger than other cradles that are used for bedside use and not recommended for babies who might flip or roll.
You'll be at ease
The best bedside cribs let babies sleep next to their parents however, they have their own sleeping area. They're generally smaller than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they are often able to be folded and put away when not in use. They're also much more accessible when it comes to night feedings, changing nappies and relaxing. This makes them ideal for new mothers recovering from a csection because they don't have to bend down as far to tend to their baby during the night.
The crib is also a good choice for parents who are concerned about the dangers associated with co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is situated closer to the bed of the parent and has a lower chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a regular bassinet or cot. This kind of safe co-sleeping is called rooming in and is a crucial part of a baby's early development.
You can also buy a wide range of different bedsides with some that come with a portable mattress that you can take with you when travelling and others that convert into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides come with an incline position that is ideal for babies with reflux. There is also a crib that attaches to the bed of the parent, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being accidentally moved when the baby is asleep.
If you're considering an infant crib that is next to your bed, make sure it has a breathable and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft and durable cover. This will ensure that your baby will be comfortable and warm when they sleep.
There are bedsides that are easy to collapse and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those sleepy 3am feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It is also compact enough to fit into its travel bag. This is a great feature for parents who are busy.