Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the mattress of the parent and lets the baby sleep nearby. These are a safe way to co-sleep and are perfect for mums recovering after 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 is height-adjustable and can be swiveled into an inclined position to aid reflux babies.
They're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're also known, are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep next to their parents without risk of SIDS. They're similar to Moses baskets or a standard baby cot however, they attach to the side of the parent's bed and have one open side, which allows parents to easily access their newborn baby. They're perfect for families that want to benefit from co-sleeping, but are concerned about the dangers associated with bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety of the bassinet or bedside sleeper however CHOICE has discovered that when used properly these products are safe and have a low rate of injuries and accidents. They're also a great choice for new parents who are experiencing exhaustion which is often associated with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. You can monitor the baby and comfort them if needed.
If you're in search of a secure bedside cot, you should pick one with an air-tight, durable mattress. you could try these out that is breathable can help regulate the body temperature of your child and avoid overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is also an excellent idea and so is a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. You can purchase these items online or in stores that specialise in baby products. It is not recommended to use second-hand or hand-me down products. They could have been recalls, damaged or do not meet the safety standards.
A quality bedside crib is easy to put together and can be dismantled when not in use. Some models also have tilt positions that can be adjusted which can make it easier for newborns to sleep in an elevated position or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag so you can easily pack them up and take them with you on your trip.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, particularly when using the right cleaning products. Take away any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or toys that are cuddly and wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Vacuum the cot including the mattress. Pay particular attention to the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also an excellent idea to in reducing the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.
Next take a soft cloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to clean the cot. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as possible. If the mattress has staining, use a gentle scrub brush to clean them and a bit of baking soda to eliminate any the lingering smells. Always test a small section of the mattress to ensure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot if it has been removed from its structure. You can also make a solution using warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is made of wood It can be cleaned with a mixture of warm vinegar and water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test a small portion of wood to ensure it won't be damaged. Then apply the solution using a soft cloth, and allow it to dry before putting it back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet, is specially designed infant sleep solution that lets your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move from room room when required. They're also an excellent choice when you're limited on space in your home or if you're planning to travel with your infant.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular baby beds are designed to be affixed to the side of your mattress, so that you can easily move your infant up and down to feed them at night or soothe. These cribs are constructed with a drop-down or movable side for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can be transformed into full cot-beds as your child grows. This gives you more longevity and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the lightweight and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them perfect for travel. "It's very compact and small, so it can 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 down easily."
The Shnuggle Air beside Crib is another lightweight option that's been nominated for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it is easy to transport, and feels solid. But, she notes that it's not as big as some bedside cribs and isn't recommended for babies who may flip or roll.
You'll be at ease
The best bedside cribs let babies sleep next to parents, but have their own sleeping space. They are usually much more compact than a Moses Basket or a standard cot and can be folded and stored when not being used. It's also much easier to reach for feeds, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them perfect for new mums recovering from a c-section as they won't need to bend down as far 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 risks that come with co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to the bed of a parent, and therefore has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in a standard cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is essential for a baby's development.
You can also purchase various bedsides. Some come with the option of a portable bed that you can take to your next trip and others can be transformed into a baby crib or toddler's bed. Some bedsides come with incline positions that are great for babies with reflux. Based on your requirements and budget, you could also find a bedside crib 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 considering sleeping in a bed it's important to choose one that has a durable and breathable mattress to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, sturdy cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy during their sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to collapse and slide, which is great for those 3am feeds when you're tired. 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 traveling.