5 Laws Everybody In Bedside Cots Should Be Aware Of
Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also referred to as a side sleeper or bassinet, fixes to the bed of the parent and lets baby sleep close by. They're a safe form 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 assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It's height adjustable, and can be tilted to an inclined position for reflux babies and is a good option for a travel cot.
You're secure
Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are often referred to, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are connected to the parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. These are ideal for families who wish to co-sleep but are worried about the potential risks of sharing a bed.
Many people are worried about the safety of a bassinet or bedside sleeper, but CHOICE has found that when used properly, these products are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. They're also a great choice for new parents struggling with the exhaustion that can result from nighttime feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can monitor the baby and soothe them if necessary.
If you're looking for an cot for your bed that is safe, pick one with an upholstered mattress that is durable and ventilated. A breathable mattress will aid in regulating your baby's temperature and prevent them from overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is recommended, as well as a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. You can purchase all these items online and in stores that specialize in baby products. It is not recommended to make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They may have been damaged, recalled or do not meet the safety standards.
A quality bedside crib is easy to put together and can be taken apart when not in use. Some models can be adjusted to incline positions that make it easier for infants to sleep in a raised position or for parents with reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them on a excursion.
It's easy to clean
The right products make it easy to clean cots for bed. Remove any bedding like sheets, blankets or a cuddly toy, and wash them according the instructions of the manufacturer. Then, you can vacuum the cot as well as its mattress, paying special attention to the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors can help to reduce the growth of dust mites, bacteria, and other germs.
Next take a soft cloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to wipe down the cot. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as possible. Use a soft scrub brush to get rid of any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate any lingering odors. Always test a small portion of the mattress to ensure the cleaning product is safe for your child.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot when it has been taken apart. You can also make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is made of wood, you can clean it by mixing warm water and vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without harming the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test a small portion of wood to ensure it isn't damaged. Apply the solution using a soft, clean cloth and allow it to dry before taking it apart again.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib is also called a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your baby to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. They are also ideal when your home is small or you are planning to travel with your child.
In contrast to regular cribs for babies cribs for bedside use, they are designed to be attached to the side of your bed so you can easily carry your baby out and back in for night feedings and comfort. They are made with a drop-down or movable side that allows for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can even be converted into full cot beds as your child grows, giving you added longevity and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, making them ideal for traveling. "It's very compact and small which means it can be tucked away in a travel bag and be carried around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air alongside Crib is a different, light option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu agrees that it's easy to move and feels solid. However, she says it's a little larger than some cribs that are placed on the bed, and shouldn't be used by babies who are likely to roll or flip.
You'll be comfortable
The best bedside cribs let newborns sleep close to parents, but have their own sleeping space. They're usually smaller than a Moses Basket or a standard cot and can be folded up and stored when not being used. They're also a lot more accessible for nighttime feeds, nappy changes and soothing. This makes them ideal for new mums recovering from a c-section since they don't have to bend down as far to care for their little one in the middle of the night.
The crib is also a great option for parents who are concerned about the risks that come with co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is located closer to the parent's bed and has a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a standard bassinet or cot. This kind of safe co-sleeping is known as rooming in and is a crucial part of a baby's early development.
Cots For Tots can also purchase various bedsides with some that come with an inflatable mattress that you can take along on your travels and others that can be converted into a standalone baby cot or toddler bed. Some even have incline positions, which are great for babies who have reflux. You can also find a crib that attaches to the bed of the parent or has locking wheels. This will prevent the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.
If you're interested in a bedside sleeper, it's worth choosing one with a strong and breathable mattress to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft and durable cover. This will ensure that your baby will be comfortable and warm when they sleep.
Some bedsides are also simple to slide and collapse which is perfect for those morning feedings when you're exhausted. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit into its travel bag. This is a great feature for parents who are busy.