Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is a bassinet-style cot that attaches to the side of your bed to allow safe co-sleeping. It lets you be able to see and reach your baby during nighttime feeds without having to disturb them. It is also great for those with reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your baby sleeps in their own crib, cot or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib is a practical and cost-effective alternative to a larger cot.
Safety
Cots are safe and secure areas for babies to rest. They have high sides to stop babies from falling. The solid head and footboards have a shape cut into them to prevent babies from becoming caught in. Soft toys, cot bumpers, and wedges can pose a choking hazard.
The Lullaby Trust recommends that a baby should be in the same space as their parents for the first six months of their life but not in their bed due to the risk of suffocation. However, many parents struggle to resist the temptation to share their bed with a baby who is sleeping so a crib for bedside is a great option to ensure a peaceful and safe co-sleeping. These cribs are attached to the side or headboard of a bed for parents so that you can reach your child without having to get out of bed. They also meet all safety standards.
If you're looking for a cot with an option to drop down to sleep, you should look for the SnuzPod4. This crib has dual-view mesh windows and a zip-down wall that allows it to be utilized on its own for a good night's sleep. It also complies with the latest standard for cot safety and comes with a rocking feature which soothes babies to sleep.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is the appropriate size for your child. It should be at minimum 50cm in depth to prevent your child from getting out of the cot as they grow. Also, make sure to take away any stickers and transfer paper from the interior of the cot, since they can fall off and present an choking risk.
The cot shouldn't be placed too close to a radiator or bright window, as babies are at greater risk of SIDS due to overheating. Blind cords must be removed as babies can be strangled by cords. The crib should also be free from duvets, pillows and other bedding, as they can cause the suffocation of a child.
It is also recommended to read a guide on cot safety before you purchase a cot for your baby. The NHS and Lullaby Trust provide a wealth of information and advice on how to ensure your baby's safety while sleeping. You can also participate in an NCT New Baby Course to learn more about safe sleep.
Design
Bedside cribs are a great method to co-sleep safely with your infant, and they come in many different designs. Some bassinets can be attached to your bed which allows you to raise your child to feed them at night or soothe them to sleep without having to get out of the bed. Some are portable, like the Slumber 3-in-1, which is a convertible travel cot, a cosleeper and playpen that could be utilized at home or while on the go.
It is crucial to keep in mind that, just like with all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby sleeps on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. When selecting a crib mattress, ensure that it is flat and firm and fits snugly within the crib without gaps. It is also recommended to use a waterproof cover to shield your mattress from spills and accidents.
Celeb moms like Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead are huge fans of bedside cribs. They are cots with a bassinet design which attach to the side of your bed. They have a removable or drop down side that lets you reach your baby during the night for feeding or soothing, and are especially useful for parents who have had c-sections recovering.
Portability
A bedside crib is a great option to keep your baby close, particularly during the first few months, when nappy changes and nighttime feeds changes are regular. It allows you to take care of your baby's needs without having to leave your bed. It also helps your child develop a strong relationship with you. It can also help you get some restful sleep yourself.
Most bedside cots are portable which means you can move them around the room easily. They are perfect for small spaces and can be used as a stand-alone crib or attached to the bed's side. Some are compact enough to fit into your suitcase when you travel with your child.
Some models have an adjustable part that collapses, making it easier to carry your child to you to feed them at night, or to calm him back to sleep. This can be useful for mothers who are breastfeeding and can lower the chance of suffocation. Most bedside cribs are suitable for babies up to six months old, however some are suitable for older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is a fantastic option for new parents because it is versatile, safe and comes with a bag for travel. It comes with a stay-in place connection system to attach to your bed, and has six height settings to meet your needs. It has a drop-side to facilitate access, as well as an incline option for babies with reflux or coughs.
Our testers were impressed that it was fast and easy to put together and that it can be folded away in a matter of seconds and was an ideal choice for travel. They also felt that it was durable and, while they did note that it didn't rock, or include extra features, such as lullabies, they did say that it made for an excellent travel cot.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another selected bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design enables you to keep your baby close to you and helps in building a stronger bond between you. It also comes with a useful storage area that can be used to store nappies, baby wipes and clothes, so you don't have to worry about leaving them alone. However, our parents who tested it did mention that it was heavy when packed away and that they had difficulty with it up and down the stairs which is something you should consider if you live in a house with lots of stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are a safe alternative to cosleeping. bedside sleeper cot can aid your child in developing independence by separating your child's sleep environment from that of you. This is especially beneficial in the beginning of the year when your baby will likely require night feedings and frequent changing of nappy. It is also a great option for parents who find it difficult to bend over to take their newborn baby in the arms.
Most bedside cots are easily attached to the main mattress, and include a breathable mattress for your baby. You can also add bedding, like sheets that are soft and fitted to ensure your baby is safe and comfortable during the night. A soft, breathable cover can help keep the mattress dry and lower the chances of developing SIDS and allergies.
The price of a bedside crib can vary, but the majority are smaller than a standard cot. They are also a great present for the new parents. The CoZee by Kinderkraft, for example, is a great value. It can be used as a bedside crib, standalone bed, or travel cot, and it includes a breathable mattress and a stand. A fitted sheet is included to increase comfort and protect against staining.
SnuzPod is a well-known brand, has a range of fabrics and colors that will complement your baby's nursery or bedroom. The base is cushioned to protect and support your baby. A lot of cribs can be adjusted to fit the height of your mattress and some even have a gentle reflux angle to aid your child in sleeping better.
It's tempting to purchase a used crib for your bed. However, bedside crib and travel cot to buy an entirely new mattress. Used or worn-out mattresses can increase the risk of SIDS for your child and aren't as supportive. It's also important to make sure that the mattress is fitted correctly Certain cribs are designed to fit specific brands of mattresses.
Another option is to buy a cot bed that will be suitable for your child when they're older. They can be more expensive but they're a great investment to ensure your child's safety and health. They're also a great option if you're planning on having more than one baby.