Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also referred to as a side sleeper or bassinet is a bed that can be attached to the bed of the parent and lets baby sleep close to the parent. They're a safe way to co-sleep and are perfect for mothers recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very simple to assemble. It was one of the quickest during the test. It's height adjustable, and can be tilted to an inclined position for babies with reflux and is a good option for a travel cot.
They're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're also known, are specially designed infant sleeping solutions that enable babies to sleep with their parents without risk of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but they are connected to the sides of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. They're perfect for families who wish to benefit from co-sleeping, but are concerned about the potential risks that come with sharing beds.
Many are concerned about the safety of a bassinet or bedside sleeper However, CHOICE has found that when used in a safe manner these products are safe and have a low incidence of accidents and injuries. These cribs are also a good choice for new parents who struggle with the exhaustion of night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs let you keep an eye on your baby and if they get up during the night or call you to be there for them you'll be able comfort them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a secure bedside cot, select one with a durable, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will aid in regulating the body temperature of your child and prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is recommended and so is a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. All these items can be found online or in stores that specialize in baby products. You should never make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They may have been recalls, damaged or are not in compliance with the safety standards.
A good quality bedside crib will be easy to set up and will be removed for storage. Some models come with adjustable incline positions that make it easier for babies to sleep in a raised 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 a trip.
It's easy to clean
The best products allow you to clean bedside cots. Remove any bedding such as blankets, sheets or toys that are cuddly and wash them according the manufacturer's instructions. Vacuum the cot, including its mattress. Be particular about crevices and corners. Mattress protectors can aid in reducing the buildup of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next, clean the cot with a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Clean a clean cloth frequently to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as possible. Use a soft scrub brush to get rid of any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to remove any lingering odors. Test bedside crib and cot cleaning solution on a small portion of the mattress prior to applying it.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot when it has been removed from its structure. You can even make a solution using 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 using a mixture warm vinegar and water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria, without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Take a small sample of wood to ensure it isn't damaged. Apply the solution using a soft, clean cloth and let it dry before reassembling.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet, is a specially designed infant sleep solution that allows your child to sleep beside your bed. These cribs are lightweight, compact and easy to move around. They are also ideal when your home is small or you are planning to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular baby beds 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 typically have a removable or drop-down side that's perfect for easy lifting, as well as tilt and height adjustments. Some cribs can be made into full cot beds as your child grows. This provides you with more durability and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for traveling. One mum says, "It is small and compact, so it can be easily transported around the home and fit in a bag." "My husband is able to carry it upstairs and down with ease."
The Shnuggle Air beside Crib is a lighter option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's easy to transport and believes it's durable too. However, she says it's slightly larger than other cribs for bed and isn't suitable for infants who are likely to roll or flip.
You'll be at ease
The best bedside cribs allow newborns to sleep close to their parents however in a separate sleeping area. They're generally smaller than a Moses basket or traditional cots, and they can be folded and stored away when not in use. It's also much more convenient to reach for feedings, diaper changes, and for soothing. This makes them ideal for new mums who are recovering from a c section as they won't have to bend down as much to take care of their baby during the middle of night.
They're also a great option for parents who wish to get a good night's rest and are worried about the risk of co-sleeping. The crib is closer to a parent's bed, and therefore has a lower risk of SIDS than sleeping in a standard cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping is known as rooming in and is a vital aspect of a baby's initial development.
You can also buy a variety of bedsides that include the option of a portable mattress that you can carry with you when travelling and others that convert into a separate baby cot or toddler bed. Some even come with incline positions which are ideal for babies with reflux. There are also crib that is attached to the bed of the parent, or has locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident when the baby is asleep.
If you're interested in the bedside sleeper it's important to choose one with a sturdy and breathable baby mattress to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend choosing a foam mattress that's covered with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby will be comfortable and warm while they're sleeping.
There are bedsides that are easy to collapse and slide down which is a fantastic feature for those sleepy 3am 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 an incredibly simple bedside cot to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into a travel bag. This is a great feature for parents with busy schedules.