Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also known as a bassinet or side sleeper, fixes to the parent's bed and lets baby sleep close to the parent. They are a safe method to sleep together and are ideal for mothers who are recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib very quick and easy to assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable, can tilt into an inclined position for babies with reflux and is a great option for a travel cot.
They're secure
Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are also called special infant sleep solutions that allow babies to sleep near their parents without the danger of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are connected to the parent's bed. One side is open, so parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. They are ideal for families that want to benefit from co-sleeping, but are concerned about the risks associated with bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety of a bassinet or bedside crib travel sleeper, but CHOICE has discovered that when used properly they are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. They are also an ideal choice for new parents who are experiencing exhaustion which can result from nighttime feedings and early morning nappy changes. Bedside cribs allow you to keep an eye on your child, and if they wake up in the middle of the night or call you for some reason you'll be able soothe them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a safe bedside crib vs cot cot, choose one that has an air-tight, durable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will aid in regulating your baby's body temperature and prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is also an excellent idea and so is a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. These items are available online or in stores that specialize in baby items. You should never use second-hand or hand-me-down products. They could have been damaged, recalled or not up to safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib will be simple to set up and can be dismantled to store. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions that make it easier for babies to sleep in a raised position or for parents suffering from reflux. Some models have bags for travel so that they can be easily packed away and carried to your destination.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, particularly with the right products. Start by removing bedding, like blankets, sheets or cuddly toys, and then washing them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special focus on the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are an excellent idea to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.
Next take a soft cloth that has been soaked in a baby-safe cleaning spray or a natural stain remover spray to clean the cot. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as it can be. If the mattress is stained you can use a soft scrub brush to treat them and a bit of baking soda to improve the lingering smells. Always test a small area of the mattress first to ensure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
If the cot is taken apart, it will be easier to reach all of its surfaces, corners for thorough cleaning and sanitising. You can even use a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is made out of wood, you can clean it using a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant will kill bacteria without leaving harmful residues or causing damage to the wood. Test the solution on a small portion of the wood to make sure it won't damage it. Apply the solution with a soft, clean cloth and let it dry prior to taking it apart again.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib can also be known as a bedside basset or co-sleeper. It allows your baby to sleep right next to your bed. They are compact, portable and easy to move from room to room when needed. They are also ideal when your home is small or you plan on traveling with your child.
As opposed to standard baby beds cribs for bedside use, they are designed to be attached to the side of your bed so you can easily lift your newborn out and back in for night feedings and comfort. These cribs are designed with a drop-down or movable side that allows for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs even convert into full cribs as your child grows offering you more longevity and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for traveling. "It's very compact and small which means it can fit in its own travel bag and be transported throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it up and down with ease."
The Shnuggle Air beside Crib is a different, light option that's been nominated for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best bedside Cots Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's lightweight and feels it's sturdy too. However, she says it's slightly larger than some bedside cribs and shouldn't be used by babies who may flip or roll.
You'll be at ease
The best bedside cribs let newborns sleep close to parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They're usually smaller than a Moses Basket or a standard crib and can be folded and stored away when not in use. It's also much easier to reach for feeds, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them ideal for new mums who are recovering from a c section and won't have to bend as far down to take care of their baby in the middle night.
They're also a great option for parents who wish to get a good night's rest and are worried about the risks of co-sleeping. The crib is closer to the bed of the parent and, consequently, has a lower risk of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is crucial for the development of a baby bedside crib.
You can also purchase various bedsides. Some come with an inflatable bed that you can carry with you on your travels, while others can be converted into a baby cot or toddler's bed. Some bedsides come with an incline position that is ideal for babies who suffer from reflux. There is also a crib that can be attached to the bed of the parent or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.
If you are interested in the possibility of a crib next to your bed, ensure it's a comfortable and sturdy baby mattress. This will ensure the security of your child. We suggest choosing a foam mattress that's covered with a soft and sturdy cover. This will ensure that your baby will be comfortable and warm during their sleep.
There are also bedsides that are simple to fold and slide down which is a fantastic feature for those sleepy 3am feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted for 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's also small enough to fit in a bag for travel, which is a bonus for busy parents who are always on the move.