Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a side sleeper or bassinet) connects to the parent's bed for safe co-sleeping. It allows you to easily reach your baby for night feeds and comforting, without disrupting your sleep.
It's important that the crib is secure and regularly inspected for any gaps that could create a suffocation risk. Some cribs can be transformed into cots for your growing baby using conversion kits.
Safety
A bedside crib bed is similar to a bassinet for babies however it is attached to your mattress instead of being placed on the floor. They're popular with parents who want their newborn bedside cot to be close enough for feeding, comforting and even for night-time diaper changes. They're also a crucial part of safe cosleeping (also known as rooming-in) and help reduce the risk of SIDS.
If you decide to go with a sliding bed or 4-in-1 bedside sleeper, you'll need an appropriate cot mattress that fits in the cot bed comfortably. Be sure that it doesn't slump or bulge, and that it complies with safety standards as well as the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. Verify that the mattress is clean, free of tears and cracks and is free of loose threads.
The close proximity of a crib at bedtime allows mothers to quickly respond to their infants' needs during the night, including feeding their babies with bottles and breastfeeding, as well as helping them to maintain their milk supply. It also allows them to feed their babies without getting up or out of bed. This helps promote healthy sleep habits for parents and their babies.
Most bedside cot beds are fitted with a mesh that's securely attached to the sides of the cot, reducing the risk of a baby getting caught or trapped in the gaps. Check the mesh regularly to look for tears or loose threads which could catch or entangle the baby's clothes. Also, make sure that there aren't any other dangers, like the protruding handles or bars, which may encourage your child to climb out of the bed. Beware of any plastic that is hot to the touch, and avoid any sharp edges.
Convenience
A bedside crib and travel cot cot allows you to keep your baby close by so you can respond to their needs throughout the night, without having to move out of your own bed. This closeness can make it easier for you to feed them, change them and comfort the baby when they wake up, particularly in the early stages of parenthood, encouraging better sleep for you both. It can also be helpful in establishing a breastfeeding bond.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also referred to as a sidecar sleeper or bedside bassinet. It's a form of safe co-sleeping which reduces the risks associated with sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It allows babies to sleep with their parents which is a wonderful method for mothers to establish an intimate breastfeeding relationship and assist them sleep better in the first few months after the birth.
The majority of cribs have a removable or drop-down side that allows you to remove the baby from the crib without leaving your bed. This allows you to be more attentive to their needs at night. Some models come with a manual rocking feature, which is particularly useful for babies suffering from reflux. Many of these types of cribs are smaller than moses' cots or a standard basket, making them less bulky and take up less space.
Some beds come with an under-bed storage space. This is a great space to store blankets and nappy. This is a great space to store toys, baby accessories, and other things. You can find a few that are convertible, meaning they can change from a side-sleeper into a full-sized crib or toddler bed as your child gets older.
Jasmine, a MFM mum and home tester, describes the MoMi Smart Bed as "a excellent choice for your baby", saying that it's not overly large or heavy. This means that it won't take up a lot of space in your bedroom. She also loved the fact that it has two sleeping heights so you can adjust it based on your baby's age.
Styles
bedside crib travel cots, which are bassinets with style, are attached to your bed. They let you lower one side of your crib so that it's within your reach at night to feed or comforting. They're also a godsend for mums who've had a csection, since you don't have to get up to reach your baby and they can help speed up recovery. Look for cot beds that can be used with the frame you prefer and securely attach to the parent's mattress. Some models also have a removable 4th wall that can be taken down when not in use to keep your baby safe and away from danger.
Budget
If you're planning to purchase a bedside crib, you need to consider the budget you have. They are more expensive than a moses's basket or cot, however they can be purchased at a price that suits all budgets. You'll need a crib mattress that's safe for infants and an airy and soft set of bedding. They can be bought on the internet, along with additional items such as a teether or blanket.
Think about a sliding or 4-in-1 crib as an alternative to a bedside cot. These are like a cot however, you can slide them into the space beside your bed without gaps in between and can be converted into a regular bed as your baby grows out of them. They are also ideal for those who have a small space. They come with features like a tilt or drop-down sides to make it easier to access your baby. The only downside is that they tend to last for just 6 months, which means you'll need to transfer your baby into a crib or moses shell at this point.