Bedside Cots
Bedside cribs are 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. They're a secure method of co-sleeping and are great for mothers recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be extremely simple and quick to put together (one of the quickest during testing). It's height adjustable, and can be tilted into an inclined position for babies with reflux and is a great option for a travel cot.
They're secure
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're often referred to, are specially designed infant sleeping solutions that allow infants to sleep beside their parents without the risk of SIDS. Cots For Tots look like Moses baskets, but they are attached to the parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily reach their infant sleeping. They're perfect for families that want to benefit from co-sleeping but are concerned about the risks associated with bed sharing.
Many people are worried about the safety of the bassinet or bedside sleeper however CHOICE has discovered that when used properly these products are safe and have a low incidence of accidents and injuries. They are also a great choice for parents who are new and struggling with exhaustion from night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs let you keep an eye on your little one, and if they wake awake in the night or require your assistance for some reason you'll be able to soothe them or change their nappies quickly.
If you're looking for a secure bedside cot, you should choose one that has a sturdy, breathable mattress. A breathable mattress will aid in controlling your baby's temperature and prevent them from overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is recommended along with the nappy changing kit with a waterproof cover. All these products can be purchased online or in stores that specialize in baby items. You should never use second-hand or hand-me down products. They could have been recalls, damaged or do not meet safety standards.
A quality bedside crib will be simple to put together and can be taken apart to store. Some models also have incline positions which can be adjusted which can make it easier for babies to sleep in a higher position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with bags for travel so that they can be easily put away and carried to your destination.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right products. Begin by removing any bedding such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys, and then washing them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Vacuum the cot including the mattress. Pay special attention to the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are beneficial to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other bacteria.
Then step, use a soft washcloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to clean the cot. Always dampen a new cloth to wash soapy residues and keep the surface clean. Use a gentle scrub brush to eliminate any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate the lingering smells. Always test a small area of the mattress first to make sure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot when it has been taken apart. You can even make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed from wood, you can clean it using a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural disinfectant will kill bacteria without leaving harmful residues or causing damage to the wood. Take a small sample of wood to ensure it won't be damaged. Apply the solution using a soft clean cloth and allow it to dry before taking it apart again.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib is also called a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It allows your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. They're also a great choice if you have limited space in your home or if you're planning to travel with your baby.
In contrast to regular cribs for babies cribs for bedside use, they are designed to be attached to the side of your bed so you can easily lift your newborn into and out for nighttime feedings and comfort. They usually have a removable or drop down side that's ideal for lifting easily and also adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs are even converted into full cot beds as your child grows, giving you added durability and value.
These sleeping options are perfect to travel with because they're lightweight and transportable. One mum said, "It is small and compact, so it can easily be moved throughout the house and can be carried in its own bag." "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 mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's easy to transport and believes it's durable too. However, she says it's a little larger than some bedside cribs and isn't suitable for infants who might roll or flip.
They're comfortable
The best bedside cribs let babies sleep next to parents but in a separate sleeping space. They're typically more compact than a Moses Basket or a standard cot and can be folded up and stored away when not being used. They're also a lot easier to reach for nighttime feedings, changing nappies and comforting. This makes them perfect for new mums recovering from a c-section as they don't have to bend down as much to look after their little one in the middle of the night.
They're also a great choice for parents who wish to get a good night's sleep and are worried about the risks of co-sleeping. The crib is closer to the bed of the parent and, consequently, has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is important for the baby's development.
You can also buy a wide range of different bedsides that include a portable mattress that you can carry along on your travels and others that can be converted into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some even have incline positions, which are great for babies suffering from reflux. Based on your requirements and budget, you could also purchase a crib for your bed that is attached to the bed of the parent, or has locking wheels so it won't be accidentally moved while the baby is asleep.
If you're considering sleeping in a bed, it's worth choosing one with a sturdy and breathable baby mattress to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend a foam mattress with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby will be comfortable and warm during their sleep.
Some bedsides are also simple to collapse and slide which is perfect for those 3am feeds when you're bleary-eyed. 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 crib that is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in a travel bag, which is a bonus for parents who are always who are always on the move.