Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an upholstered bassinet cot that is attached to the side of your bed to allow safe co-sleeping. It allows you to see your baby and reach them for night feedings without causing disturbance to them. It is also perfect for those suffering from reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your baby sleeps in their own cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib is a practical and affordable alternative to a full-size cot.
Safety
Cots are safe and secure places for babies to sleep. They are surrounded by high sides that prevent babies from falling out. The solid head and footboards are shaped to keep babies from getting caught in. Soft toys, cot bumpers and wedges can be the risk of choking.
The Lullaby Trust advises that babies should not be sleeping in their parents' bed for the first six month of their life due to the possibility of in suffocation. However, many parents are unable to resist the urge to share their bed with a sleeping baby and a crib that is placed at the bedside is a great option to ensure a peaceful and safe co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached to the sides of a bed for parents so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed, and they conform to all safety requirements.
If you're looking for a crib with an option to drop down overnight, look for the SnuzPod4. The crib features dual-view mesh windows and an adjustable wall that can be lowered to allow it to be utilized on its own for a peaceful night's rest. It also meets the new cot safety standard and has a rocking feature that soothes infants to sleep.
Check that the crib has been cleaned thoroughly and is the correct size for your child. It should be at minimum 50cm in depth to prevent your child from getting out of the cot as they increase in height. Remove stickers and transfers that can peel off the cot's interior and create a risk of choking.
The cot shouldn't be placed too close to the sunlight or radiator since babies are susceptible to overheating and could be at a higher risk of SIDS. Blind cords must be removed as babies can get caught in them. The cot should also be free of pillows, duvets and other bedding, as they could cause death.
It's also a good idea to study a cot safety guide before purchasing your baby one. The NHS and Lullaby Trust provide a wealth of information and advice on safe baby sleeping. You can also attend an NCT New Baby course to find out more about safe sleeping.
Design
Bedside cribs are an excellent method to co-sleep safely with your baby, and they are available in a variety of styles. Some bassinets can be attached to your bed which allows you to lift your child up to feed them at night or help soothe them to sleep, without having to get out of the bed. Some are portable, such as the Slumber Carbon 3-in-1, which can be transformed into an cot for travel, a playpen, and co-sleeper to use at home or on the move.
It is crucial to keep in mind that, like all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby is sleeping on their back to help reduce the chance of SIDS. When choosing a mattress for your baby's crib, ensure that it's firm and flat and fits snugly into the cot without gaps. bedside crib and travel cot is also recommended that you use a breathable mattress cover to protect the mattress from spills and accidents.
Bedside cribs are bassinets that attach on the side of your mattress. Stacey Solomon, Binky Felstead, and many other famous faces are fans of these cribs. They come with an adjustable or drop down side that allows you to reach your baby for night feeding or soothing. They are especially useful for parents who have had c-sections recovering.
Portability
A crib for your bed is a great way to keep your baby close, especially in the first few months of life when nappy changes and nighttime feeds changes are regular. It allows you to attend to your baby's needs without having to get away from your bed, and it helps your little one establish an intimate relationship with you. It can also help ensure that you get a good night's sleep.
Most bedside cots are portable and can be moved them around the room with ease. They are perfect for small spaces and can be used as a standalone 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 child.
Certain models come with a collapsible side, which makes it easy to lift your baby out towards you for night feeding or to soothe them to sleep. This can be helpful for mothers who breastfeed, and it can reduce the risk of suffocation as well as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Most cribs that are bedside can be used for babies as young as 6 months. However, some cribs are suitable for older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee is a fantastic choice for parents who are new because it's safe, flexible and comes with a bag. It has a stay-in-place connector system that attaches to your bed, and six height settings that can be adjusted to fit your needs. It also features an open-side that allows for easy access and an incline option, which is perfect for newborns with coughs or reflux.
Our testers were impressed that it was quick and easy to assemble and that it folds away in seconds making it an ideal option for traveling. They also thought that it was strong and although they did point out that it did not rock or include extra features, such as the sound of lullabies, they also said that it was an excellent travel cot.
Chicco Next2me Magic was another bedside cot that we shortlisted that parents loved. Its unique design allows you to sleep your child close to you. This is great for enhancing the bond between you and your baby. It has a storage compartment that can be used to store wipes, clothes and nappies so that you won't have any worries about leaving them behind. However, our testers from parents were adamant that it was bulky when it was packed away and that they struggled with it when they went up and down the stairs, which is something to be aware of when you live in a house with lots of steps.
Cost
Bedside cribs in the UK are a safe alternative to co-sleeping and can help your baby to develop independence by separating their sleep environment from yours. This is especially useful in the beginning of the year when your baby is likely to require night feedings and frequent diaper changes. It's also a great choice for parents who are having difficulty getting their baby up.
The majority of bedside cots can be connected to the main mattress and include a breathable mattress for your baby. You can also add bedding, like an incredibly soft fitted bed sheet to keep your baby snug and secure at night. A soft, breathable mattress cover will keep the moisture off of the mattress and decrease your baby's risk of suffering from SIDS or allergies.
The cost of a bedside crib can differ, but it's generally less expensive than the cost of a larger crib. They also make a fantastic gift for new parents. The CoZee by Kinderkraft for instance, is an excellent value. It can be used as a bedside crib, standalone bed, and travel cot. It comes with a breathable mattress and a stand. A fitted sheet is included to add extra comfort and prevent stains.
A reputable brand such as SnuzPod offers an array of colors and fabrics that will fit your baby's nursery bedroom. The base is padded to cushion and help your baby. Many of these cribs can be adjusted to fit the level of your mattress and some have a gentle reflux angle to aid your child in sleeping better.
It's tempting to purchase a used bedside crib. However, it's important that you purchase a new mattress. Second-hand mattresses or ones that are used may increase your baby's risk of SIDS, and they might not be as comfortable. It is essential to ensure that the mattress fits properly - some cribs were designed to be able to only fit specific brands.
Another option is to buy a cot that will be suitable for your child when they're older. bedside sleeper cot can be more expensive but they're a great investment for your child's safety as well as health. They're also a good option if you're planning on have more than one child.