Bedside Cots
Bedside cribs are also known as a bassinet, or side sleeper. It attaches to the mattress of the parent and lets the baby sleep close to the parent. They're a safe form of co-sleeping and are great for mothers who are recovering from C-sections.
MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be extremely simple and quick to assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable, can tilt to an inclined position for babies with reflux and is a good travel cot option.
You're safe
Bedside cots, or co-sleepers as they're also known, are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow babies to sleep next to their parents without a risk of SIDS. They resemble Moses baskets, but are attached to the side of a parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their infant who is sleeping. They are perfect for families that want to sleep together but are concerned about the potential risks of sharing a bed.
Many people worry about the safety and efficacy of a bedside sleeper or bassinet. However, CHOICE found that these products, if used correctly, are safe and result in fewer injuries and accidents. They are also a good choice for new parents who struggle with the exhaustion of late night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs let you monitor your child, and if they wake up during the night or require your assistance to help them you'll be able to comfort them or change their nappies quickly.
If you are looking for a bedside cot that's safe, choose one with a mattress that is sturdy and ventilated. A breathable mattress will aid in regulating your baby's temperature and stop them from overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is a good idea, as well as an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. You can purchase these items online or in stores that specialize in baby products. It is not recommended to use second-hand or hand-me-down products. They may have been damaged, recalled or do not meet safety standards.
A top-quality bedside crib is simple to assemble and is easily removed when not in use. Some models have inclined positions that can be adjusted which can make it easier for babies 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 put away and brought along when you travel.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, especially with the right equipment. Remove any bedding like sheets, blankets, or cuddly toy and wash them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Then, vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying particular focus on the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are a good idea to help reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.
Then take a soft cloth moistened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain removal spray to wipe down the cot. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as you can. If the mattress is stained you can use a soft scrub brush to clean them. Add a small amount of baking soda to improve lingering odours. Always test a small section of the mattress to ensure that the cleaning product is safe for your child.
If the cot is disassembled, it will be easier to reach all of its surfaces and corners for thorough cleaning and sanitizing. best bedside cot can use a mild detergent and warm water solution to clean the mattress and its protector.
If the cot is constructed 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 a small portion of wood to ensure it won't be damaged. Apply the solution with a soft clean cloth and let it dry prior to reassembling.
They're easy to move
A bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet, is a specially designed infant sleeping solution that allows your baby to sleep beside your bed. These cribs are portable, compact and easy to move around. They're also a great option for those with limited space at home or if you plan to travel with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike regular cribs for babies, are designed to be attached to the side of your mattress, so that you can easily move your infant up and down to feed them at night or for soothing. They typically come with a removable or drop down side that's ideal for lifting easily and also have adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs can be made into full cot-beds when your child grows. This provides you with more 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, so it can fit in its own bag for travel and be moved throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."
The Shnuggle Air next to the crib is another option for light weight, shortlisted in 2021's Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and believes it's durable too. But, she notes that it's slightly larger than some bedside cribs and isn't suitable for infants who are likely to roll or flip.
You'll be comfortable
The best cribs for bedside use let newborns sleep close to parents but in a separate sleeping space. They're usually a lot more compact than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they are often able to be folded and put away when not being used. They're also a lot more accessible for nighttime feeding, changing nappy and relaxing. This makes them ideal for new mothers recovering from a c-section as they don't have to bend as much to tend to their baby during the night.
The crib is also a good option for parents who are worried about the risks associated with co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is located closer to the bed of the parent and has a lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than sleeping in a regular cot or bassinet. This kind of secure, co-sleeping referred to as "rooming in" is essential for a baby's development.
You can also buy various bedsides. Some have a portable bed that you can carry along on your travels, while others can be transformed into a baby crib or toddler's bed. Some bedsides feature an incline position that is ideal for babies who suffer from reflux. There is also a crib that attaches to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved accidentally when the baby is asleep.
If you're considering a bedside sleeper is a good idea to select one with a strong and breathable baby mattress to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend a foam mattress with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm while they're sleeping.
Some bedsides are also simple to slide and collapse which is perfect 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 cot that is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into its travel bag. This is an excellent feature for parents with busy schedules.