Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also known as a side sleeper or bassinet, fixes to the bed of the parent and allows baby to sleep close by. They're a safe form of co-sleeping and are great for mums recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib extremely quick and simple to assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable, can tilt to an inclined position for babies who have reflux and is a great option for a travel cot.
You're safe
newborn bedside cot cots or co-sleepers, as they are often referred to special infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the danger of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but are connected to the side of a parent's bed. One side is open, allowing parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. They are perfect for families who wish to sleep together but are concerned about the risks of sharing a bed.
Many are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has found that when used properly these products are safe and have a low rate of accidents and injuries. These products are also a great choice for parents who are new and struggling with the exhaustion of night feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can watch the baby and comfort them if necessary.
If you're in search of a bedside cot crib cot that is safe, choose one with a mattress that is strong and ventilated. A mattress that is breathable can help regulate your baby's body temperature and help prevent overheating. It is also recommended to purchase a fitted sheet that will fit your mattress, as well as a nappy changing kit with an waterproof cover and a wipeable mat. You can purchase all these items online and in stores that specialise in baby products. It is crucial to remember that you shouldn't use hand-me-downs or secondhand products because they could be recalled, or damaged and do not meet the necessary safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib is easy to assemble and is easily dismantled when not in use. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions, which make it easier for infants to sleep in a raised position or for parents suffering from reflux. Some models have a travel bag included so they can be easily packed away and taken to your destination.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right equipment. Take away any bedding, such as blankets, sheets, or cuddly toy and wash them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special 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 bedside with a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain remover spray. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as you can. If the mattress has staining then use a gentle scrub brush to treat them, and add a little baking soda to help eliminate the lingering smells. Test the cleaning solution on a small part of the mattress before applying it.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot once it is removed from its structure. You can even make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is made of wood, you can clean it with a mixture of warm water and vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without leaving harmful residues or damaging the wood. Test a small piece of wood to make sure it won't be damaged. Then, apply the solution with a soft cloth and let it to dry before putting it back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib is also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It allows your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move around. They're also a great option for those with limited space in your home or if you're planning to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular cribs, are designed to be affixed to the side of your mattress, so that you can easily move your infant up and down to feed them at night or soothe. They usually come with a removable or drop-down side that is ideal for easy lifting and also have tilt and height adjustments. Some cribs even convert into full cribs as your child grows giving you added longevity and value.
These sleeping solutions are ideal to travel with because they're lightweight and transportable. "It's very compact and small and can easily fit in its own travel bag and be transported around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it up and downstairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air beside crib is another lightweight option that was shortlisted for 2021's Best bedside cots Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's lightweight and feels it's sturdy too. She adds that it's a bit bigger than other cradles that are used for bedside cot mattress use and is not recommended for infants that might roll or flip.
They're comfy
The best cribs for beds let newborns sleep close to parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They're usually smaller than a Moses Basket or a standard cots and can be folded up and stored when not being used. They're also a lot easier to reach when it comes to night feeds, nappy changes and relaxing. This makes them perfect for new mothers who are recovering from a c section and won't have to bend as far down to take care of their baby during the middle of night.
They're also a great option for parents who want to get a good night's rest and are concerned about the risk of co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is closer to the parent's bed and has a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a standard cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is essential for the development of a baby.
You can also buy a variety of bedsides. Some include the option of a portable bed that you can bring with you on your travels or even be transformed into a baby cot or a toddler's bed. Some even have incline positions, which are ideal for babies with reflux. There are also crib that is attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident when the baby is asleep.
If you're thinking of buying the possibility of a crib next to your bed, make sure it's a ventilated and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the security of your child. We recommend a foam mattress that's covered with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfy and warm while they're sleeping.
Some bedsides are also easy to collapse and slide which is perfect for those morning feeds when you're exhausted. 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 compact enough to fit into its travel bag. This is a great feature for busy parents.