Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It is attached to the parent's mattress and allows the baby to sleep close to the parent. These are a safe way to co-sleep and are perfect for mothers who are recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib extremely simple and quick to assemble (one of the quickest during testing). It's height-adjustable, can tilt into an inclined position for reflux babies and is a good alternative for travel cots.
You're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're often referred to, are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep next to their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are attached to the sides of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their sleeping infant. These are ideal for families who wish to co-sleep but are worried about the dangers of sharing a bed.
Many people are worried about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has found that when used in a safe manner these products are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. They're also a great option for parents who are experiencing exhaustion which can result from nighttime feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs allow you to keep an eye on your little one and, if they wake awake in the night or need you to help them you'll be able help them sleep or change their nappy quickly.
If you're in search of an cot for your bed that is secure, select one with a mattress that is sturdy and ventilated. A mattress that is breathable can aid in controlling your baby's body temperature and prevent overheating. It is also recommended to buy a fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress, as well as a nappy changing kit that includes an waterproof cover and a mat with wipes. You can find all these items on the internet and in stores that specialize in baby products. It is crucial to remember that you shouldn't ever use secondhand or hand-me-down products or items since they may be recalled or damaged and not meet the necessary safety standards.
A top-quality bedside crib is simple to assemble and can be removed when not in use. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions that make it easier for babies to sleep in a raised position or for parents suffering from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag so you can easily pack them up and take them on your excursion.
It's easy to clean
The right products make it easy to clean cots for bed. Begin by removing any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys, and then washing them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Clean the cot thoroughly including the mattress. Pay particular attention to crevices and corners. A mattress protector is also a good idea to help reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other bacteria.
Next step, use a soft washcloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to wipe down the cot. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as it can be. Use a gentle scrub brush to eliminate any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate lingering smells. Test the cleaning product on a small area of the mattress prior to using it.
If the cot is disassembled, it will be easier to access all of its surfaces and corners for thorough cleaning and sanitising. You can even make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is made from wood, you can disinfect it using a mix of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria, without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the mixture on a small area of the wood to ensure that it doesn't harm it. Apply the solution with a soft clean cloth and let it dry prior to taking it apart again.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib is also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your child to sleep right beside your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. They're also an excellent choice if you have limited space in your home or if you're planning to travel with your baby.
Unlike regular baby beds, bedside cribs are designed to attach to the sides of your bed so you can easily carry your baby in and out for night feedings and comfort. They typically include a drop-down side that's perfect for lifting easily and also tilt and height adjustments. Some cribs even convert into full cot beds as your child grows providing you with extra longevity and value.
These sleeping options are perfect to travel with because they're lightweight and portable. "It's extremely compact and small which means 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 upstairs and down easily."
The Shnuggle Air beside Crib is another lightweight option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's lightweight and feels it's sturdy too. But, bedside crib to cot notes that it's not as big as other cribs for bed and isn't recommended for babies who might roll or flip.
You'll be at ease
The best bedside cribs let babies sleep next to their parents however, they have their own sleep space. They're usually a lot more compact than a Moses basket or traditional cots, and they can be folded and put away when not being used. It's also easier to reach for night feeds, diaper changes and soothing. This makes them perfect for new mothers recovering from a c-section since they don't have to bend down as much to look after their infant in the middle of the night.
They're also a great option for parents who want to get a good night's sleep and are worried about the dangers of co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is located closer to the parent's bed and has a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a standard bassinet or cot. This kind of safe co-sleeping is known as rooming in and is an important element of a baby's early development.
You can also buy a variety of bedsides with some that come with an inflatable mattress that you can carry with you on trips and others that can be converted into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides feature inclined positions that are ideal for babies with reflux. There is also a crib that can be attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being accidentally moved when the baby is asleep.
If you are interested in a crib beside your bed, make sure it has a breathable and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend choosing a foam mattress that's covered with a soft and durable cover. This will keep your baby warm and comfortable as they sleep.
There are also bedsides that are easy to fold and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those 3am bleary-eyed feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category, is a great example of a bedside cot which is easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit in a bag for travel which is an added benefit for parents who are always who are always on the move.
