Bedside Cots
Bedside cribs are also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It is attached to the mattress of the parent and lets the baby sleep close to the parent. They're a safe method 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 one of the fastest during testing. It's height adjustable, and can be tilted into an inclined position for reflux babies and is a great alternative for travel cots.
You're secure
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're sometimes referred to are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow infants to sleep beside their parents without a risk of SIDS. They are similar to Moses baskets or a standard baby cot, but they fasten to the side of the parent's bed and have one open side, which allows parents to have access to their newborn baby. These are ideal for families who wish to co-sleep, but are concerned about the dangers of sharing a bed.
Many people are concerned about the safety of a bassinet or bedside sleeper, but CHOICE has found that when used properly they are safe and have a low risk of injuries and accidents. They're also a great choice for new parents experiencing exhaustion which can come with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. You can watch the baby and comfort them when needed.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, you should select one with a sturdy, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable can help to regulate your baby's temperature and prevent them from overheating. A fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress is a good idea along with the nappy changing kit with a waterproof cover. You can purchase these items online or in stores that specialise in baby products. It is important to remember that you should never use secondhand or hand-me-down products or items since they may be recalled, or damaged and not meet the standard safety requirements.
A top-quality bedside crib is simple to assemble and is easily removed when not in use. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions, which make it easier for infants to sleep in a higher position or for parents with reflux. Some models come with a travel bag, so you can easily pack them up and take them with you on your trip.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, particularly when using the right products. Take away any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or a cuddly toy, and wash them according the manufacturer's instructions. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special attention to corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also beneficial to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other bacteria.
Then, use a soft cloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to clean the cot. Every now and then, dampen a clean cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the cot clean. If the mattress has stains you can use a soft scrub brush to remove them, and add a little baking soda to improve the lingering odours. Always test a small section of the mattress to ensure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
If the cot is disassembled, it is easier to access all of its surfaces, nooks and crannies for thorough cleaning and sanitizing. You can use a mild detergent and warm water solution to clean the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is constructed of wood, you can clean it using a mixture warm water and vinegar. bedside travel cot , without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test a small piece of wood to ensure it will not be damaged. Apply the solution with a soft clean cloth and allow it to dry before reassembling.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is a specifically designed infant sleeping solution that allows your child to sleep beside your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. These cribs are also great when your home is small or you plan on traveling with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular cribs for babies, are designed to be attached to the sides of your mattress so that you can easily lift and lower your newborn to feed them at night or for soothing. They usually come with a removable or drop down side that's ideal for lifting easily, as well as adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs are even converted into full cot beds as your child grows offering you more durability and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, making them ideal for travel. "It's extremely compact and small and can easily fit into its own travel bag and be carried throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air next to the crib is another option for light weight that was shortlisted for 2021's Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and feels it's strong too. She also says it's a bit larger than other cradles for bed and not recommended for babies who could flip or roll.
You'll feel comfortable
The best bedside cribs allow babies to sleep with their parents, but have their own sleeping space. They're usually smaller than a Moses Basket or standard cots and can be folded up and stored when not being used. They're also more accessible for nighttime feedings, changing nappies and soothing. This makes them perfect for new mums 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 choice for parents who wish to get a good night's sleep and are worried about the risks of co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to the bed of a parent and has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping, also known as "rooming in" is essential for the baby's development.
You can also purchase a variety of bedsides that include the option of a portable mattress that you can carry along on your travels and others that convert into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides come with inclined positions that are ideal for babies who suffer from reflux. Depending on your needs and budget, you can also purchase a crib for your bed that fastens to the bed of the parent or has locking wheels so it can't be moved accidentally while the baby is asleep.
If you're interested in a bedside sleeper is a good idea to select one that has a durable and breathable baby mattress to ensure your child's safety. We recommend a foam mattress that's covered with a soft and sturdy cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy as they sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to slide and collapse which is perfect for those morning feedings 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 a bedside cot that is easy to lower. It is also compact enough to fit in its travel bag. This is a great feature for parents with busy schedules.