Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the mattress of the parent and allows the baby to sleep in the same room. These are a safe way to co-sleep and are perfect for mothers recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib extremely quick and simple to put together (one of the fastest during testing). It can be adjusted in height and be tilted into an inclined position to assist reflux babies.
They're secure
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're sometimes referred to, are specially designed infant sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep with their parents without a risk of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but are attached to the parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their infant who is sleeping. These are ideal for families that want to sleep together but are concerned about the potential risks of bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety and effectiveness of a bassinet or bedside mattress. However, CHOICE found that these products, when used correctly are safe and result in fewer injuries and accidents. These cribs are also a good choice for parents who are new and struggling with the exhaustion of night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs allow you to monitor your child and, if they wake up in the middle of the night or call you for some reason, you'll be able to help them sleep or change their nappy fast.
If you're in search of a secure bedside cot, you should choose one that has an air-tight, durable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will aid in controlling your baby's temperature, and also prevent them from overheating. Also, you should purchase a fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress and a nappy changing kit that has waterproof covers and a wipeable mat. You can purchase these items on the internet and at stores that specialize in baby products. It is crucial to keep in mind that you should never make use of secondhand items or hand-me-downs, as these may be recalled, or damaged and may not meet necessary safety standards.
A top-quality bedside crib is simple to assemble and can be taken apart when not in use. Some models also have inclined positions that can be adjusted which can make it easier for infants to sleep in an elevated position, or for parents with reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them on your excursion.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right products. Begin by removing any bedding like blankets, sheets or cuddly toys, and washing them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Then, you can vacuum the cot as well as its mattress, paying particular attention to corners and crevices. A mattress protector can also aid in reducing the growth of dust mites, bacteria, and other germs.
Then, clean the cot using a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Every now and then, dampen a clean cloth to wash soapy residues and keep the surfaces clean. Use a gentle scrub brush to eliminate staining from the mattress. Baking soda can be used to remove any lingering odors. Test the cleaning product on a small portion of the mattress prior to using it.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot once it is taken apart. You can also use a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed from wood, it is possible to sanitise it with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without leaving harmful residues or damaging the wood. Test the solution on a small portion of the wood to ensure it won't damage it. Then apply the solution using a soft cloth and allow it to dry before putting back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib is also known as a bedside basset or co-sleeper. It lets your baby to sleep right beside your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move around. They are also ideal if your home is small or you plan to travel with your child.
Unlike regular baby beds, bedside cribs are designed to attach to the side of your bed, so you can easily lift your infant into and out for nighttime feedings and soothing. They usually come with a removable or drop down side that's ideal for easy lifting and also 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 portability and light weight of these sleeping solutions, which makes them perfect for travel. "It's extremely compact and small and can easily fit into its own travel bag and be transported around the house easily," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it up and downstairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air along with Crib is a different, light option that's been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it's simple to move and is sturdy. bedside crib travel cot does add that it's a bit larger than other cradles that are used for bedside use and is not recommended for infants who might flip or roll.
They're at ease
The best cribs for bedside use allow newborns to sleep with their parents however, they have their own sleeping area. They're typically smaller than a Moses basket or conventional cots, and can be folded and put away when not being used. They're also a lot more accessible for nighttime feedings, changing nappies and relaxing. This makes them ideal for mothers who are recovering from a csection because they won't have to bend 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 rest and are worried about the risk of co-sleeping. This is because the crib is situated closer to the bed of the parent and has a lower chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a standard bassinet or cot. This type of safe co-sleeping known as rooming in and is a vital element of a baby's early development.
You can also purchase a wide range of different bedsides with some that come with an inflatable mattress that you can carry along on your travels and others that convert into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides come with inclined positions that are ideal for babies who suffer from 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 accidentally when the baby is asleep.
If you're considering a crib beside your bed, make sure it has a breathable and sturdy baby mattress. This will ensure the security of your child. We recommend a foam mattress with a soft, sturdy cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfy and warm when they sleep.
Some bedsides are also simple to collapse and slide which is perfect for those morning feeds when you're exhausted. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in a bag for travel which is a plus for parents who are always on the move.