Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the mattress of the parent and lets the baby sleep close to the parent. They are a safe method to sleep together and are ideal for mothers 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 is height-adjustable and can be angled to an inclined position to assist reflux babies.
They're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're often referred to as, are specially-designed infant sleeping solutions that enable infants to sleep beside their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are connected to the sides of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their infant sleeping. These are ideal for families who want to sleep together but are concerned about the risks of sharing a bed.
Many are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has found that when used in a safe manner they are safe and have a low incidence of accidents and injuries. They are also an ideal option for new parents suffering from the exhaustion that is often associated with night feeds and early morning nappy changes. Bedside cribs let you monitor your little one and if they get up in the middle of the night or need you for some reason, you'll be able to help them sleep or change their nappies quickly.
If you're looking for a bedside cot that's secure, select one with a mattress that is strong and airy. A mattress that is breathable will aid in regulating the temperature of your baby's body and help prevent overheating. You should also purchase a fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress as well as a nappies changing kit that has an waterproof cover and a mat that can be cleaned. All these items are available online or in stores that specialize in baby items. It is crucial to keep in mind that you shouldn't ever use hand-me-downs or secondhand products, as these may be recalled or damaged and may not meet standard safety requirements.
A top-quality bedside crib is easy to assemble and is easily taken apart when not in use. Some models have inclined positions which can be adjusted which makes it easier for babies to sleep in a higher position or for parents with reflux. Some models come with a travel bag so you can easily pack them up and take them with you on your excursion.
They're easy to clean
The best products allow you to clean bedside cots. Remove any bedding such as sheets, blankets, or cuddly toy and wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying particular attention to the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also an excellent idea to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other bacteria.
Then, use a soft cloth that has been soaked in a baby-safe cleaning spray or a natural stain removal spray to wipe down the cot. Regularly dampen a new cloth to wash soapy residues and keep the cot clean. Use a soft scrub brush to get rid of staining from the mattress. Baking soda can be used to remove the lingering smells. Test the cleaning product on a small area of the mattress before applying it.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot if it is taken apart. You can even use a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is made from wood, it is possible to clean it using 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 area of the wood to make sure that it doesn't harm it. Apply the solution using a soft clean cloth and let it dry before rebuilding.
bedside travel crib are easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is specially designed infant sleeping solution that allows your baby to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are lightweight, compact and easy to move around. They are also ideal for homes with small spaces or you plan to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike standard cribs for babies, are designed to be affixed to the side of your mattress, so that you can easily move your infant up and down for night feedings or soothing. They typically include a drop-down side that's perfect for lifting easily, as well as tilt and height adjustments. Some cribs can be transformed into full cot-beds as your child grows. This gives you more durability and value.
These sleeping solutions are perfect for traveling because they are lightweight and transportable. "It's very compact and small which means it can be tucked away in a bag for travel and be moved around the house easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air beside 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 agrees that it's simple to move and feels sturdy. However, she says it's not as big as some bedside cribs and shouldn't be used by babies who might roll or flip.
You'll feel comfortable
The best bedside cribs let newborns sleep close to parents, but have their own sleeping space. They are usually much more compact than a Moses Basket or a standard crib and can be folded up and stored away when not being used. They're also much easier to reach when it comes to night feeds, nappy changes and comforting. This makes them ideal for new mums who are recovering from a c section, as they won't need to bend as low to take care of their infant during the middle of the night.
They're also a great option for parents who wish to have a restful night's sleep and are concerned about the risks of co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is closer to the parent's bed and is less prone to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than sleeping in a regular bassinet or cot. This kind of safe co-sleeping is called rooming in and is an important part of a baby's early development.
You can also buy various bedsides. Some have a portable bed that you can bring along on your travels and others can be converted into a baby cot or toddler's bed. Some even have incline positions, which can be great for babies who have reflux. Based on your needs and budget, you can also find a crib that is attached to the bed of the parent, or comes with locking wheels to ensure it won't get moved while the baby is asleep.
If you're considering sleeping in a bed it's important to choose one with a strong and breathable mattress for your baby to ensure your child's safety. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm when they sleep.
There are also bedsides that are easy to collapse and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those sleepy 3am 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 cot which is easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit into a travel bag. This is a great feature for parents with busy schedules.
