Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the mattress of the parent and allows the baby to sleep nearby. They're a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mothers who are recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very easy to put together. It was among the quickest during the test. It's height-adjustable, can tilt to an inclined position for reflux babies and is a good travel cot option.
They're secure
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they are also known they are specially designed infant sleep solutions that allow babies to sleep near their parents without the risk of SIDS. bedside co sleeper resemble Moses baskets, but they are connected to the parent's bed. One side is open, allowing parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. They're ideal for families who wish to benefit from co-sleeping, but are worried about the dangers associated with bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety of a bassinet or bedside sleeper however CHOICE has discovered that when used correctly these products are safe and have a low incidence of injuries and accidents. They're also a great choice for new parents experiencing exhaustion which is often associated with night feeds and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs let you monitor your child and, if they wake up in the middle of the night or call you to help them you'll be able to soothe them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a bedside cot that is secure, select one with a mattress that is strong and airy. A mattress that is breathable can help regulate the body temperature of your child and help prevent overheating. It is also recommended to buy a fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress, as well as a nappy changing kit with a waterproof cover and a wipeable mat. You can find all these items online or in stores that specialise in baby products. It's important to remember that you should never make use of secondhand items or hand-me-downs because they could be recalled, or damaged and may not meet required safety standards.
A quality bedside crib is easy to put together and can be dismantled to store. Some models have adjustable tilt positions, making it easier for infants to sleep in a higher position or for parents suffering from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag so you can easily pack them up and take them with you on your journey.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, particularly with the right products. Remove any bedding like blankets, sheets or toys that are cuddly and wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Vacuum the cot, including its mattress. Pay particular attention to crevices and corners. A mattress protector can also help to reduce the growth of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next, wipe down the cot with a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain remover spray. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as it can be. If the mattress has stains, use a gentle scrub brush to treat them. Add a small amount of baking soda to eliminate any the lingering odours. Always test a small section of the mattress first to make sure the cleaning product is safe for your child.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot when it is disassembled. 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 made from wood, it is possible to sanitise it with a mixture of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without leaving harmful residues or damaging the wood. Test the mixture on a small section of the wood to make sure it won't damage it. Then, apply the solution with a soft cloth and allow it to dry before putting back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet is a specifically designed infant sleeping solution that lets your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are small and portable, making them easy to move from room room as needed. They're also an excellent choice for those with limited space at home or you're planning to travel with your baby.
Bedside cribs, unlike standard baby beds are designed to be affixed to the side of your mattress so that you can easily lift and lower your newborn to feed them at night or for soothing. They are made with a drop-down or movable side that allows for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs even convert into full cribs as your child grows giving you added longevity and value.
Our mum testers love the portability and light weight of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for travel. "It's extremely compact and small which means it can fit into its own travel bag and be carried around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs easily."
The Shnuggle Air beside crib is another lightweight option which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it is easy to move and feels solid. She also says it's a bit larger than other cradles that are used for bedside use and isn't recommended for children who could flip or roll.
They're comfortable
The best cribs for bedside use allow babies to sleep with their parents however, they have their own sleep space. They're usually a lot more compact than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they can be folded and put away when not being used. It's also more convenient to reach for feedings, diaper changes and for soothing. This makes them perfect for new mums recovering from a csection because they won't need to bend down as much to look after their little one during the night.
They're also a great choice for parents who want to get a good night's rest and are concerned about the risks of co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to a parent's bed and, consequently, has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe co-sleeping is called rooming in and is an important aspect of a baby's initial development.
You can also purchase various bedsides that include a portable mattress that you can take along on your travels and others that convert into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides have an incline position that is ideal for babies suffering from reflux. Depending on your needs and budget, you can also find a crib that fastens to the bed of the parent, or has locking wheels so it won't get moved while the baby is asleep.
If you're interested in sleeping in a bed it's important to choose one that has a durable and breathable baby mattress to ensure your child's safety. We recommend a foam mattress with a soft, sturdy cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm while they're sleeping.
You can also find some bedsides that are simple to collapse and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those sleepy 3am feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket, is an example of an incredibly simple bedside cot to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into a travel bag. This is a fantastic feature for parents who are busy.