Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a bassinet or a side sleeper) is attached to the parent's bed for safe co-sleeping. It is easy to reach your child at night for feedings and comforting without disrupting your sleep.
It is crucial that the crib is secure and regularly checked for any gaps that could create a suffocation risk. Some cribs are also convertible, with conversion kits to transform them into standalone baby cribs as your child grows.
Safety
Bedside cribs are similar to bassinets for babies however they are attached to your existing mattress instead of resting on the ground. They're very popular with parents who want their newborn to be close enough for feeding, comforting and night-time diaper changes. They're also a crucial part of safe cosleeping (also called rooming-in) and reduce the risk of SIDS.
If you decide to go with a sliding bed or 4-in-1 bedside sleeper, you'll require a compatible cot mattress that fits in the cot bed comfortably. It should not be sagging or bulge, or slide. It must also be in compliance with the safety standards, including those of the Lullaby Trust. Verify that the mattress is clean, free of tears and cracks and is free of loose threads.
A crib placed close to the bed allows mothers to respond quickly to newborn's needs, whether that is nursing or bottle feeding. This helps them maintain their milk supply. Also, they can feed their babies without getting up or leave the their bed. This promotes healthy sleep habits for parents and their babies.
Most bedside cot beds have mesh that's securely attached to the sides of the cot to minimize the chance of a baby being trapped or entangled in the gaps. Make sure to regularly inspect the mesh to check for tears or loose threads that could entangle or trap the baby's clothes. Also, make sure that there are no other hazards, such as the protruding handles or bars that could encourage your infant to get out of bed. Likewise, look for any parts made of plastic that are hot to the touch and avoid sharp edges or splinters.
Convenience
Keep your baby close to you so that you can attend to his or her needs at any time throughout the night without having to leave your bed. This proximity makes it easier to feed and change, as well as comfort your baby once they awake. It can be beneficial in establishing a breastfeeding bond.
This type of infant sleep solution is also referred to as a sidecar or twin bedside cot basset. It's a secure form of co-sleeping that reduces the chance of suffering from sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets babies sleep with their parents, which helps mums establish a breastfeeding connection and get more sleep in the first few months after birth.
Most models have an adjustable or drop-down side that allows you to lift the baby from the crib without having to leave your bed, making it easier to take care of their needs at night. Some models come with the option of manual rocking which is especially beneficial for babies with reflux. A majority of these cribs are smaller than moses or a standard cot basket, which makes them lighter and take up less space.
Some beds have storage space underneath, which is great for storing nappies and blankets. This is a great place to store toys, baby accessories and other items. Some are convertible, which means that they can be changed from a side-sleeper, to the size of a full-sized or toddler bed as your child grows older.
Home tester and MFM mother Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a great option for your little one," saying it's not too bulky or large that means it won't take up a lot of space in the bedroom. She also appreciated that you can alter the height of the bed according to your baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots are cots that resemble bassinets which attach to your bed and allow you to lower one side of the crib to your reach for night-time feeding or for soothing. They're also a blessing for mums who've had a c-section as you don't need to get out of bed to reach your baby and they can help speed up recovery. Look for cot beds that can be used with the bed frame of your choice and securely connect to the mattress of your parent. Some models have a removable 4th wall which can be lowered when not in use to ensure your child safe.
Budget
If you're considering buying a bedside crib, you need to think about the amount of money you can afford. They're more expensive than a moses's basket or cot, however they can be found at a cost that is suitable for all budgets. You'll require a crib mattress that is safe for infants and an airy and soft set of bedding. These can be purchased on the internet, along with additional items like a baby bedside co sleeper teether or blanket.
Consider a 4-in-1 or sliding crib as an alternative to the bedside baby bed cot. These are similar to a cot but you can slide them into the space beside your bed without gaps and they can also be transformed into a regular mattress when your child is old enough to use them. They are also ideal for those with limited space. They come with features like tilt or drop-down sides to facilitate access to your baby. The only downside is that they tend to last for just 6 months, so you'll have to put your baby to a cot or moses shell at this point.