Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also known as a bassinet, or side sleeper. It is attached to the parent's mattress and lets the baby sleep nearby. They are a safe method to co-sleep, and are a great option for mothers who are recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very easy to put together. It was one of the quickest during the test. It is height adjustable and can be angled to an inclined position to aid reflux babies.
They're secure
Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are often referred to, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the risk of SIDS. They are similar to Moses baskets or the standard baby cot, however, they attach to the side of the parent's bed and have one open side, which allows parents to easily access their newborn infant. They are perfect for families that want to co-sleep but are worried about the potential risks of sharing a bed.
Many people are concerned about the safety and effectiveness of the bassinet or bedside sleeper. However, CHOICE found that these products, when used correctly, are safe and cause fewer injuries and accidents. They are also an ideal choice for new parents suffering from the exhaustion that can come with night feeds and early morning diaper changes. You can monitor the baby and soothe them if necessary.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, select one with a durable, breathable mattress. A breathable mattress will aid in controlling your baby's temperature and stop them from overheating. Also, you should buy a fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress and a nappy changing kit with waterproof covers and a mat with wipes. These items are available online or in stores that specialize in baby products. It is important to remember that you should never use hand-me-downs or secondhand products because they could be recalled, or damaged and not meet the standard safety requirements.
A good quality bedside crib will be easy to put together and can be taken apart to be stored. Some models also come with inclined positions that can be adjusted, which makes it easier for newborns to sleep in a higher position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag, so you can easily pack them up and take them on your journey.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right products. Remove any bedding such as sheets, blankets or toys that are cuddly and wash them according the manufacturer's instructions. Then, you can vacuum the cot as well as its mattress, paying particular focus on the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also beneficial to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.
Next, clean foldable bedside crib with an abrasive cloth soaked with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Always dampen a new cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surface clean. If the mattress has stains then use a gentle scrub brush to remove them. Add a small amount of baking soda to help eliminate the lingering odours. Always test a small area of the mattress first to ensure that the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot once it is disassembled. 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 constructed from wood, it is possible to disinfect it using a mix of warm water and white vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the solution on a small section of the wood to ensure it doesn't cause damage to the wood. Then, apply the solution with a soft cloth and let it to dry before putting back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet, is specially designed infant sleeping solution that allows your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are small and portable, making them easy to move from room to room when required. They're also a great option when you're limited on space at home or if you plan to travel with your infant.
In contrast to regular cribs for babies cribs for bedside use, they are designed to attach to the side of your bed so you can easily carry your baby out and back in for night feedings and comfort. They are made with a removable or drop-down side for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs even convert into full cot beds as your child grows offering you more longevity and value.
These sleeping solutions are ideal for traveling because they are lightweight and portable. "It's extremely compact and small, so it can be tucked away in a travel bag and be transported around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air alongside Crib is a different, light option that's been nominated for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and believes it's durable too. However, she says it's a little larger than some cribs that are placed on the bed, and shouldn't be used by babies who are likely to roll or flip.
You'll be comfortable
The best bedside cribs allow newborns to sleep next to their parents however, they have their own sleep space. They're typically smaller than a Moses Basket or standard cot and can be folded up and stored away when not in use. It's also more convenient to reach for feeds, diaper changes and soothing. This makes them perfect for mothers who are recovering from a c-section since they won't have to bend down as far to tend to their baby during the night.
They're also a great choice for parents who wish to get a good night's rest and are worried about the dangers of co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to the bed of a parent and, consequently, has a lower risk of SIDS than co-sleeping a standard cot or bassinet. This type of safe co-sleeping is known as rooming in and is an important element of a baby's early development.
You can also purchase a variety of bedsides, some of which include an inflatable mattress that you can take with you on trips and others that convert into a separate baby cot or toddler bed. Some bedsides come with an incline position that is ideal for babies suffering from reflux. You can also find a crib that can be attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.
If you're considering a bedside sleeper it's important to choose one with a strong and breathable mattress for your baby to ensure your baby's safety. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, long-lasting cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm while they're sleeping.
There are bedsides that are simple to fold and slide down, which is a great feature for those 3am bleary-eyed 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 is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into its travel bag. This is a fantastic feature for busy parents.