Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also known as a side sleeper or bassinet, fixes to the bed of the parent and allows baby to sleep close to the parent. They're a secure method of co-sleeping and are great for mothers who are recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be extremely quick and simple to put together (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable and tiltable to an inclined position for reflux babies and is a great option for a travel cot.
They're secure
Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots , as they are also called, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep with their parents without the danger of SIDS. They're similar to Moses baskets or the standard baby cot, however they are attached to the side of the parent's bed and feature one open side, allowing parents to easily access their sleeping newborn. They're perfect for families who want to benefit from co-sleeping but are concerned about the risks associated with sharing beds.
Many people are worried about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device however CHOICE has found that when used properly, these products are safe and have a low rate of injuries and accidents. These products are also a great choice for parents who are new and struggling with the exhaustion of night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs let you keep an eye on your little one, and if they wake up in the middle of the night or call you to help them, you'll be able to comfort them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a bedside cot that is safe, pick one with a mattress that is sturdy and ventilated. A mattress that is breathable can aid in regulating the body temperature of your child and help prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is recommended and so is an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. You can purchase these items online or in stores that specialize in baby products. It is crucial to remember that you shouldn't ever use secondhand or hand-me-down products or items, as these may be recalled or have been damaged and do not meet the standard safety requirements.
A top-quality bedside crib is simple to assemble and can be removed when not in use. Some models also have tilt positions which can be adjusted which can make it easier for infants to sleep in an elevated position or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with bags for travel so that they can be easily packed away and carried along when you travel.
It's easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, particularly when using the right products. Start by removing any bedding such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys. Then wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Then, vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying particular focus on the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are beneficial to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other germs.
Then step, use a soft washcloth that has been soaked in a baby-safe cleaning spray or a natural stain removal spray to clean the cot. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as it can be. Use a soft scrub brush to get rid of any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate the lingering smells. Test the cleaning solution on a small area of the mattress prior to using it.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot once it is taken apart. You can also make a solution using warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed out of wood, you can sanitise it with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant will kill bacteria without leaving harmful residues or causing damage to the wood. Test a small piece of wood to make sure it isn't damaged. Apply the solution using a soft cloth and let it to dry before putting it back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib is also known as a bedside basset or co-sleeper. It lets your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move around. They're also an excellent choice for those with limited space in your home or if you plan to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike standard cribs, are designed to attach on the side of your mattress so that you can easily raise and lower your baby to feed them at night or for soothing. They usually include a drop down side that's ideal for easy lifting and also have adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs even convert into full cribs when your child gets older, giving you added durability and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the light and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them perfect for travel. "It's extremely compact and small which means it can be tucked away in a travel bag and be carried throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it up and down easily."
The Shnuggle Air on the side of the crib is another lightweight option which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot Crib, Cot or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Gulhan Arapoglu agrees that it's simple to transport, and feels sturdy. She adds that it's a bit larger than other cradles for bed and isn't recommended for children that might roll or flip.
They're comfortable
The best cribs for beds allow babies to sleep with their parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They are usually much more compact than a Moses Basket or standard cot and can be folded up and stored when not in use. They're also much more accessible for nighttime feeding, changing nappy and comforting. This makes them perfect for mothers who are recovering from a c-section as they don't have to bend down as much to tend to their little one in the middle of the night.
The crib is also a good choice for parents who are concerned about the dangers associated with co-sleeping. This is because the crib is closer to the bed of the parent and is less prone to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than sleeping in a standard bassinet or cot. This kind of safe co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is essential for the baby's development.
You can also purchase various bedsides. Some come with an inflatable bed that you can take with you on your travels or even be converted into a baby cot or a toddler's bed. Some bedsides have an incline position that is ideal for babies with reflux. There are also crib that can be attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will prevent the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.
If you're thinking of buying a crib beside your bed, make sure it has a breathable and sturdy baby mattress. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, long-lasting cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy during their sleep.
There are bedsides that are easy to fold and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those bleary-eyed 3am feeds. 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 compact enough to fit in its bag for travel which is an added benefit for busy parents who are always on the move.