Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the parent's mattress and lets the baby bedside co sleeper sleep nearby. These are a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mums recovering after C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib very quick and easy to put together (one of the quickest during testing). It's height adjustable, and can be tilted to an inclined position for babies who have reflux and is a great option for a travel cot.
They're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're often referred to are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep with their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but they are connected to the sides of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their sleeping infant. They're ideal for families that want to benefit from co-sleeping, but are concerned about the dangers associated with bed sharing.
Many people are worried about the safety of the bassinet or bedside crib with changing table sleeper However, CHOICE has found that when used in a safe manner these products are safe and have a low rate of accidents and injuries. They are also an ideal option for new parents who are struggling with the exhaustion that can come with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. You can keep an eye on the baby and comfort them if necessary.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, pick one with a durable, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable can help regulate the temperature of your baby's body and avoid overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is also recommended along with an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. You can find all these items on the internet and at stores that specialize in baby products. You should never use second-hand or hand-me-down products. They may have been recalled, damaged or not up to safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib will be easy to set up and can be taken apart for storage. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions, which make it easier for babies to sleep in a raised position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with bags for travel so that they can be easily put away and brought along when you travel.
It's easy to clean
The Best Bedside Cots products allow you to clean bedside cots. Start by removing bedding, such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys, and washing them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Clean the cot thoroughly including the mattress. Pay particular attention to the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors can aid in reducing the buildup of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next, wipe down the cot using a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain-removing spray. Always dampen a new cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surface clean. Use a soft scrub brush to get rid of stains from the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate any lingering odors. Always test a small portion of the mattress first to make sure the cleaning product is safe for your child.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot once it is removed from its structure. You can make use of a mild detergent and warm water to wash the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed from wood, you can clean it using a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria, without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the mixture on a small portion of wood to ensure that it doesn't harm it. Then apply the solution using a soft cloth and let it to dry before putting it back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib can also be called a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are small, portable and easy to move from room to room when required. They're also a great choice for those with limited space at home or if you plan to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular baby beds 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 for soothing. They are made with a drop-down or movable side for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs are even converted into full cot beds as your child grows providing you with extra durability and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for traveling. One mum says, "It is small bedside cot and compact, which means it can easily be moved around the home and can be carried in its own bag." "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs easily."
The Shnuggle Air along with Crib is a lighter option that's been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu agrees that it's easy to move and is solid. She also says it's a bit larger than some bedside cradles and is not recommended for infants who could flip or roll.
They're comfy
The best cribs for bedside use allow newborns to sleep next to their parents however in a separate sleep space. They're typically smaller than a Moses basket or traditional cots, and they can be folded and stored away when not in use. It's also much easier to reach for night feeds, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them ideal for new mothers recovering from a c-section since they don't have to bend as much to care for their infant during the night.
They're also a great choice for parents who want to have a restful night's sleep and are worried about the risks of co-sleeping. The crib is closer to a parent's bed and, consequently, has a lower risk of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is crucial for the baby's development.
You can also purchase a variety of bedsides, some of which include the option of a portable mattress that you can carry along on your travels and others that convert into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides come with inclined positions that are ideal for babies with reflux. Depending on your needs and budget, you could also find a bedside crib that fastens to the parent's bed or comes with locking wheels to ensure it can't be moved accidentally when the baby is asleep.
If you are interested in a crib beside your bed, ensure it's a ventilated and sturdy mattress for your baby. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend a foam mattress with a soft, durable cover. This will keep your baby bedside sleeper warm and comfortable while they sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to slide and collapse and slide, which is ideal for those 3am feeds when you're exhausted. The Joie Roomie Glide, shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category, is an excellent example of a bedside travel crib cot which is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in its travel bag which is an added benefit for parents on the go.