Bedside Cots
Bedside cribs are also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It is attached to the mattress of the parent and allows the baby to sleep close to the parent. They're a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mothers who are recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be extremely simple and quick to put together (one of the quickest during testing). It can be adjusted in height and be angled to an inclined position to help reflux babies.
travel cot bedside crib or co-sleepers, as they are also called, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep with their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are connected to the side of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily reach their sleeping infant. They're ideal for families who wish to enjoy the benefits of co-sleeping, but are concerned about the risks associated with sharing beds.
Many people are concerned about the safety of the bassinet or bedside sleeper, but CHOICE has found that when used correctly these products are safe and have a low rate of accidents and injuries. They are also a great option for parents who are new and struggling with the exhaustion of late night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs allow you to monitor your little one and if they get awake in the night or require your assistance to help them you'll be able to soothe them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, select one with a durable, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will help regulate your baby's body temperature and prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is recommended, as well as an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. These items are available online or in stores that specialize in baby items. You should never make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They could have been damaged, recalled or not up to safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib is easy to assemble and can be dismantled when not in use. Some models come with adjustable tilt positions, making it easier for children to sleep in a higher position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models have an included travel bag so they can be easily packed away and carried to your destination.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right cleaning products. Start by removing bedding, like blankets, sheets or cuddly toys. Then wash them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Clean the cot including the mattress. Pay particular attention to the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are beneficial to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other bacteria.
Next, clean the cot using an abrasive cloth soaked with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain remover spray. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as you can. If the mattress has stains then use a gentle scrub brush to remove them and a bit of baking soda to improve lingering odours. Always test a small area of the mattress to make sure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot once it has been disassembled. You can apply a mild detergent as well as a warm water solution to clean the mattress and the protector.
If your cot is constructed of wood It can be cleaned by mixing warm vinegar and water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without harming 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 back together.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bedside bassinet, is a specially designed infant sleep solution that allows your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move around. They're also a great option if you have limited space at home or if you're planning to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, in contrast to regular baby beds are designed to attach on the side of your mattress, so that you can easily raise and lower your baby for night feedings or soothing. These cribs are designed with a drop-down or removable side for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can even be converted into full cribs as your child grows, offering you more durability and value.
These sleeping solutions are perfect to travel with because they're lightweight and transportable. One mom says, "It is small and compact so it is easy to move around the house and easily fit into its own bag." "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs easily."
The Shnuggle Air next to the crib is another lightweight option which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it's easy to transport, and is sturdy. However, she adds that it's slightly larger than some cribs that are placed on the bed, and isn't suitable for infants who might flip or roll.
You'll feel comfortable
The best cribs for bedside use let babies sleep close to their parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They're typically smaller than a Moses Basket or a standard cot and can be folded up and stored when not in use. It's also much easier to reach for night feeds, diaper changes and soothing. This makes them perfect for mothers who are recovering from a csection because they won't have to bend down as much to tend to their little one in 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 closer to the bed of the parent, and therefore has a lower risk of SIDS than sleeping in a regular bassinet or cot. This type of safe, co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is important for the development of a baby.
You can also purchase a variety of bedsides, some of which include an inflatable mattress that you can take with you when travelling and others that can be converted into a separate baby cot or toddler bed. Some bedsides have inclined positions that are ideal for babies suffering from reflux. Based on bedside crib to cot and budget, you could also find a bedside crib that attaches to the parent's bed or has locking wheels so it won't be accidentally moved while the baby is asleep.
If you're thinking of buying a crib beside your bed, make sure it has a breathable and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend choosing mattresses made of foam that are covered with a soft and durable cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy while they sleep.
There are bedsides that are easy to fold and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those 3am bleary-eyed feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category, is a great example of a bedside crib that is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in its travel bag which is a plus for parents who are always who are always on the move.