Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also known as a bassinet, or side sleeper. It attaches to the parent's mattress and lets the baby sleep in the same room. They're a safe method of co-sleeping and are great for mothers recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib very quick and easy to assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It is height-adjustable and can be tilted into an inclined position to assist reflux babies.
You're safe
Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are often referred to they are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the danger of SIDS. They look like 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 great for families who want to sleep together but are concerned about the dangers of sharing a bed.
Many people are concerned about the safety and effectiveness of a bedside sleeper or bassinet. However, CHOICE found that these products, if used correctly, are safe and cause fewer injuries and accidents. They are also an ideal choice for new parents who are experiencing exhaustion which can come with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. You can monitor the baby and help them if necessary.
If you're in search of an cot for your bed that is safe, pick one with a mattress that is strong and airy. A mattress that is breathable will aid in controlling your baby's temperature, and also prevent them from overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is also a good idea, as well as an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. All these items can be found online or in stores that specialize in baby products. You should never make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. bedside crib and cot may have been damaged, recalled or do not meet the safety standards.
A good quality bedside crib is easy to set up and can be removed to store. Some models can be adjusted to tilt positions, making it easier for children to sleep in a raised position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag included so they can be easily put away and brought along when you travel.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, particularly with the right equipment. Begin by removing bedding, like blankets, sheets or cuddly toys. Then wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special focus on the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also an excellent idea to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other bacteria.
Next take a soft cloth dampened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain remover spray to wipe down the cot. Every now and then, dampen a clean cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surfaces clean. If the mattress has stains then use a gentle scrub brush to remove them and a bit of baking soda to improve the lingering odours. Always test a small section of the mattress first to ensure that the cleaning product is safe for your child.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot once it is taken apart. You can also make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is made out of wood, you can sanitise it with 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 section of the wood to make sure it doesn't cause damage to the wood. Apply the solution using a soft clean cloth, then let it dry before reassembling.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bedside bassinet, is specially designed infant sleep solution that allows your child to sleep next to your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. They're also a great choice for those with limited space in your home or if you plan to travel with your child.
Unlike regular baby beds, bedside cribs are designed to be attached to the sides of your bed, so you can easily carry your baby out and back in for night feedings and soothing. They are made with a drop-down or movable side that allows for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can be converted into full cot-beds as your child grows. This will give you greater longevity and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them perfect for travel. "It's very small and compact which means it can be tucked away in a travel bag and be transported around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it up and down without difficulty."
The Shnuggle Air on the side of the crib is another option for light weight which was shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's lightweight and believes it's durable too. However, she adds that it's a little larger than some bedside cribs and isn't suitable for infants who might roll or flip.
You'll be comfortable
The best bedside cribs allow newborns to sleep close to their parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They're typically smaller than a Moses basket or conventional cots, and can be folded and put away when not in use. It's also much easier to reach for feedings, diaper changes, and soothing. This makes them ideal for new mums who are recovering from a C-section and won't have to bend as low to look after their infant during the middle of the night.
The crib is also a great option for parents who are worried about the risks associated with co-sleeping. The crib is located closer to the bed of a parent and has a lower risk of SIDS than co-sleeping a standard cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping, also known as "rooming in" is important for the development of a baby.
You can also purchase various bedsides with some that come with a portable mattress that you can take with you when travelling and others that convert into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides have an incline position that is ideal for babies suffering from reflux. Based on your requirements and budget, you could also purchase a crib for your bed that attaches to the bed of the parent or comes with locking wheels to ensure it can't be moved accidentally when the baby is asleep.
If you're considering an infant crib that is next to your bed, ensure it has a breathable and sturdy mattress for your baby. This will ensure the safety of your child. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft, durable cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy as they sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to collapse and slide, which is great for those 3am feeds when you're bleary-eyed. The Joie Roomie Glide, shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category, is a fantastic example of a bedside crib that is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into its bag for travel, which is a bonus for parents who are always on the move.