Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the bed's side to ensure your baby is safe while you sleep. It allows you to see and reach your baby during night feeds without having to disturb them. It's also great for those suffering from reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your newborn sleeps in their own cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib can be a more affordable and practical alternative to a larger cot.
Safety
Cots offer a safe and secure place for babies to sleep. They are protected by high sides to prevent babies from falling out. The solid footboards and headboards have shapes cut into them to stop babies from becoming entangled. In addition, the cot should not be cluttered with soft toys, cot bumpers, and wedges that could pose an choking hazard.
The Lullaby Trust advises that babies shouldn't sleep in their parents' bed for the first six month of their lives due the risk being suffocated. However, many parents find it hard to resist the urge to share their bed with a baby who is sleeping and a crib that is placed at the bedside is a great alternative for a safe and tranquil co-sleeping. These cribs are specifically designed to be attached to the side of the bed where you can easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed, and they conform to all safety standards.
If you're looking to buy a cot with the ability to slide down to sleep, you should look for the SnuzPod4. This crib comes with a dual-view mesh window and a zip down wall which allows it to be used as a standalone unit to ensure a peaceful sleep. It also meets the new standards for safety of cots and features a rocking function that soothes babies to sleep.
When selecting a cot, make sure it's been thoroughly cleaned and is of the right size for your child. It should be at least 50cm deep in order to stop your child from getting out of the cot as they develop. Remove any stickers or transfers that may fall off the cot's interior and create a risk of choking.
The cot shouldn't be too close to a sun or radiator as babies can overheat and be at a higher risk of SIDS. Blind cords must be removed since babies can get strangled by them. Duvets, pillows and other bedding can suffocate babies, so the cot should not be full of them.
It's recommended to read a cot safety guide before you buy your baby a. The NHS and the Lullaby Trust have lots of useful information and advice about sleeping safely for your baby. You can also take part in an NCT New Baby course to learn more about safe sleeping.
Design
Bedside cribs allow you to sleep with your baby in a safe and secure way. They come in various designs. Some are bassinet-style, which connects to your bed so you can easily lift your baby for a night feed or help soothe them to sleep without having to get out of the bed. Some are portable, like the Slumber 3-in-1, which is a convertible travel cot, cosleeper and playpen that can be used at home or when you are on the move.
It is crucial to remember that, as with all sleeping arrangements for your baby the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your child sleeps on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. When choosing a crib mattress be sure that it is flat and firm, and that it fits snugly into the crib without any gaps. It is also recommended that you put on a mattress cover with breathable to shield the mattress from spills and accidents.
Bedside cribs are bassinets that sit to the side of your mattress. Stacey Solomon, Binky Felstead and others are awestruck by them. They have a drop-down or removable side that lets you be close to your baby for nighttime feeding or soothing. They are particularly useful for parents who are recovering from c-sections.
Portability
A crib for your bed will allow you to keep your baby in your arms at all times, especially in the beginning of their life when nighttime feedings and diaper changes are common. It allows you to be attentive to your baby's needs without having to leave your bed. It also helps your child develop an intimate relationship with you. It also helps ensure that you get a good night's sleep.
The majority of bedside cots can be moved around the room. They are ideal for small spaces and can be used as a stand-alone crib or a bedside cot that is attached to the bed's side. Some are compact enough to fit into your suitcase when traveling with your baby.
Some models come with an element that can be collapsed, making it easier to carry your child to you to feed them at night, or to help him sleep. This can be beneficial for mothers who are breastfeeding and reduce the chance of suffocation. The majority of cribs for bedside use can be used for babies from six months old. However, some cribs can be used by older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee is a great choice for new parents because it's secure, versatile and comes with a bag. It comes with a stay-in-place connection system that can be attached to your bed and six height settings that can be adjusted to fit your requirements. It also features an easy-access drop-side and an incline option, which is ideal for infants who suffer from coughs or reflux.
It was simple to put together, and it can be folded in just a few seconds. This made it a great option for traveling. They also said that it was sturdy and, while they did point out that it didn't rock or include extra features, such as songs, they did agree that it made an excellent travel cot.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. 4-in-1 bedside crib allows you to put your baby close to you and helps in building bonds between you. It also comes with a useful storage area that can be used to store nappies as well as baby wipes and clothing and you don't have to worry about leaving them alone. However, our parent testers were adamant that it was a bit bulky when packed away and that they would struggle with it when they went up and down the stairs and down the stairs, which is something to consider when you reside in a home with many steps.
Cost
Bedside cribs can be a secure alternative to cosleeping. They can help your child develop independence by separating your child's sleep environment from that of you. This is especially beneficial in the beginning of the year when your baby is likely to require feeding at night and frequent changing of nappy. It's also a great choice for parents who are having difficulty reaching down to pick their child up.
The majority of bedside cots can be easily affixed to your mattress and include a comfortable baby mattress. You can add additional bedding, like a soft fitted bed sheet to keep your baby secure and comfortable during the night. A soft, breathable cover will aid in keeping moisture away from the mattress, which can reduce your baby's risk of SIDS and allergies.
The price of a bedside crib can differ, but they are generally less expensive than a full-size cot. These cribs can also be an ideal gift for newly-wed parents. The CoZee from Kinderkraft is a perfect example, offering great value for money. It can be used as an end-of-the-line crib or as a standalone bed. It also comes with a breathable bed and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is included to provide extra comfort and prevent stains.
SnuzPod, a reputable brand, has a wide range of colors and fabrics that will complement your baby's nursery or bedroom. They also have a padded base to provide comfort and support for your baby. Many of their cribs can be adjusted to fit the bed's height, and some even have a gentle incline of reflux to aid your baby in sleeping better.
You might be tempted buy a second-hand bedside crib, but it's important that you use a new mattress. Mattresses that are used or old can increase the risk of SIDS in your baby and aren't as comfortable. It is important to ensure that the mattress is properly fitted - some cribs were designed to be able to only fit certain brands.
Another option is to buy a cot that will be suitable for your baby when they're older. These are more expensive, but are a great investment for the health and safety of your child. They're also a great option for those who plan on having more than one baby.