Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also known as a side sleeper or bassinet it is attached to the parent's bed 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 said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very simple to assemble. It was among the fastest during the test. It's height-adjustable, can tilt into an inclined position for reflux babies and is a good alternative for travel cots.
They're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they are often referred to, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the threat of SIDS. They are similar to Moses baskets or a standard baby cot, however, they attach to the the parent's bed and feature one side that is open, allowing parents to have access to their newborn infant. They're ideal for families who wish to enjoy the benefits of co-sleeping but are concerned about the risks associated with sharing beds.
Many people are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has discovered that when used correctly, these products are safe and have a low incidence of injuries and accidents. They're also a great 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 needed.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, you should pick one with an air-tight, durable mattress. A breathable mattress will help to regulate your baby's temperature and stop them from overheating. It is also recommended to buy a fitted sheet that will fit your mattress as well as a nappies changing kit that has an waterproof cover and a mat that can be cleaned. All these items are available on the internet or in stores that specialize in baby products. Do not use second-hand or hand-me down products. They could have been recalled, damaged or not up to safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib will be easy to set up and can be dismantled to store. Some models come with adjustable incline positions, which make it easier for babies to sleep in a higher position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them with you on your trip.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, particularly when using the right equipment. Begin by removing any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys. Then wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Clean the cot thoroughly including the mattress. Pay special attention to crevices and corners. A mattress protector can also aid in reducing the buildup of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next, wipe down the cot with a soft cloth soaked in baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain-removing spray. Always dampen a new cloth to get rid of soapy residues and keep the cot clean. If the mattress has stains you can use a soft scrub brush to remove them and a bit of baking soda to eliminate any lingering odours. Test the cleaning solution on a small portion of the mattress before applying it.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot once it is 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 constructed of wood, you can clean it using a mixture warm vinegar and water. This natural disinfectant will kill bacteria without leaving harmful residues or damaging the wood. Test a small portion of wood to ensure it will not be damaged. Apply the solution using a soft cloth, and allow it to dry before putting it back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is specially designed infant sleeping solution that lets your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact and portable, making it easy to move from room room when required. They're also an excellent choice if you have limited space at home or you plan to travel with your infant.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular cribs for babies, are designed to be affixed to the side of your mattress, so that you can easily move your infant up and down for night feedings or soothing. They typically come with a removable or drop-down side that is ideal for lifting easily and also have adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs can be made into full cot-beds as your child grows. This will give you more durability and value.
Our mum testers love the portability and light weight of these sleeping solutions, making them ideal for traveling. "It's very compact and small which means it can fit in its own travel bag and be carried throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down with ease."
The Shnuggle Air next to the crib is another option for light weight which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's easy to transport and believes it's durable too. She also says it's a bit larger than some bedside cradles and isn't recommended for children that might roll or flip.
They're at ease
The best bedside cribs allow babies to sleep next to their parents however in a separate sleeping area. They're usually a lot smaller than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they can often be folded away and put away when not being used. It's also more convenient to reach for feedings, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them ideal for new mothers recovering from a csection because they won't need to bend as much to care for their infant in the middle of the night.
They're also a great option for parents who want to get a good night's rest and are concerned about the risks of co-sleeping. This is because the crib is situated closer to the parent's bed and has a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than sleeping in a standard cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is crucial for a baby's development.
You can also purchase bedsides in a variety of styles. Some come with an inflatable bed that you can carry to your next trip or even be transformed into a baby crib or a toddler's bed. Some even have incline positions which can be great for babies with reflux. There is also bedside crib and cot that is attached to the bed of the parent, or has locking wheels. This will prevent the crib from being moved accidentally when the baby is sleeping.
If you're thinking of buying a crib beside your bed, make sure it's a comfortable and sturdy mattress for your baby. This will ensure the security of your child. We recommend choosing mattresses made of foam that are covered with a soft and durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm while they're sleeping.
Some bedsides are also simple to collapse and slide, which is great for those 3am 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 an incredibly simple bedside cot to lower. It is also compact enough to fit into its travel bag. This is an excellent feature for parents who are busy.