Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bassinet or side sleeper is a bed that can be attached to the parent's bed and allows baby to sleep close by. They're a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mothers recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very easy to assemble. It was among the most efficient during testing. It's height adjustable, and can be tilted into an inclined position for reflux babies and is a great option for a travel cot.
They're secure
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're often referred to are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep with their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are attached to the side of a parent's bed. One side is open, allowing parents can easily access their infant who is sleeping. These are ideal for families who wish to co-sleep but are worried about the dangers of sharing a bed.
Many are concerned about the safety of a bassinet or bedside sleeper, but CHOICE has discovered that when used correctly these products are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. They are also an ideal option for new parents who are struggling with the exhaustion that can come with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. You can keep an eye on the baby and soothe them if needed.
If you are looking for a bedside cot that is secure, select one with a mattress that is sturdy and ventilated. baby bedside sleeper that is breathable will aid in regulating the body temperature of your child and avoid overheating. A fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress is also recommended, as well as an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. You can purchase all these items on the internet and at stores that specialize in baby products. It is important to keep in mind that you should never make use of secondhand items or hand-me-downs since they may be recalled or have been damaged and do not meet the necessary safety standards.
A good quality bedside crib will be easy to set up and will be dismantled to be stored. Some models also have tilt positions that can be adjusted which makes it easier for babies to sleep in a higher position or parents suffering from reflux. Some models have a travel bag included so they can be easily packed away and brought with you when you're travelling.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, particularly when using the right equipment. Remove any bedding like blankets, sheets or toys that are cuddly and wash them according the instructions of the manufacturer. Then, you can vacuum the cot as well as its mattress, paying special focus on the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also beneficial to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other bacteria.
Next step, use a soft washcloth that has been soaked in a baby-safe cleaning spray or a natural stain remover spray to wipe down the cot. Clean a clean cloth frequently to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as possible. If the mattress is stained you can use a soft scrub brush to treat them and a bit of baking soda to improve the lingering odours. Test the cleaning product on a small area of the mattress before using it.
If the cot is taken apart, it is more accessible to all its surfaces and nooks and crannies for thorough cleaning and sanitising. 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 made out of wood, you can sanitise it with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria, without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the mixture on a small section of wood to ensure it doesn't cause damage to the wood. Apply the solution using a soft cloth and allow it to dry before putting it back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib is also called a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are small and portable, making it easy to move from room room as required. They are also ideal when your home is small or you plan to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular cribs for babies, are designed to attach on the sides of your mattress so that you can easily move your infant up and down to feed them at night or for soothing. These cribs are designed with a drop-down or removable side that allows for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can be made into full cot beds as your child grows. This gives you greater longevity and value.
Our mum testers love the portability and light weight of these sleeping options, making them ideal for traveling. "It's very small and compact and can easily fit in its own bag for travel and be moved throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs without difficulty."
The Shnuggle Air beside crib is another lightweight option, shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it is easy to move and is solid. She does add that it's a bit larger than other cradles that are used for bedside use and not recommended for babies who might flip or roll.
They're comfy
The best cribs for beds let babies sleep next to parents but in a separate sleeping space. They're typically more compact than a Moses Basket or a standard cots and can be folded and stored when not in use. They're also a lot more accessible when it comes to night feeding, changing nappy and relaxing. This makes them ideal for mothers who are recovering from a C-section, as they won't need to bend as far down to look after their infant during the middle of the night.
The crib is also a great choice for parents who are concerned about the dangers associated with co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to a parent's bed and has a lower chance of SIDS than co-sleeping with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is crucial for the development of a baby.
You can also buy a wide range of different bedsides that include the option of a portable mattress that you can carry with you when travelling and others that can be converted into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some even come with incline positions which are ideal for babies with reflux. Based on your needs and budget, you could also find a crib that is attached to the bed of the parent, or comes with locking wheels to ensure it can't be moved accidentally when the baby is asleep.
If you're looking for a bedside sleeper, it's worth choosing one that has a durable and breathable baby mattress to ensure your baby's safety. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfy and warm while they're sleeping.
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 an excellent example of a bedside cot that is easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit in a travel bag, which is a bonus for parents who are always traveling.