Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an attachment that attaches securely to the side of a bed. This allows safe cosleeping. It lets you see your baby and reach them for their night feedings without causing disturbance to them. It is also ideal for those suffering from reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your newborn sleeps in a separate crib, cot or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib can be a more economical and practical alternative to a full-size crib.
Safety
Cots are an ensconced and safe place for babies to sleep. They are protected by high sides to keep babies from falling. They also have a solid head and footboard with shapes cut out so that babies do not get caught in. In addition the cot should not be cluttered with soft toys, cot bumpers and wedges that can be 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. Many parents struggle 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 option for a safe and tranquil co-sleeping. These cribs are specifically designed to be affixed to the sides of a bed for parents so that you can easily reach your child without stepping out of the bed, and they conform to all safety requirements.
SnuzPod4 is a cot that has a side you can lower overnight. This crib features dual-view mesh windows as well as a wall that can be lowered, allowing it to be used as a standalone unit to get a good night's sleep. It also complies with the latest standards for safety of cots and comes with a rocking feature that helps babies sleep.
When choosing a cot, ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is of the right size for your child. It should be at least 50cm in depth to prevent your child from getting out of the cot as they grow. Remove stickers and transfers that may peel off the inside of your cot and could cause choking.
The cot shouldn't be too close to a radiator or sunny window as babies can overheat and be at an increased risk of SIDS. It must also be free of blind cords as babies are reported to be entangled and strangled in the cords. The crib should also be free of pillows, duvets and other bedding, as they can cause suffocation.
It's recommended to read a cot safety guide before you buy your baby one. The NHS and the Lullaby Trust have lots of useful information and advice about sleeping safely for your baby. You can also participate in an NCT New Baby course to learn more about safe sleeping.
Design
Bedside cribs let you co-sleep with your baby. They come in various designs. Some bassinets are attached to your bed and allow you to raise your child to feed them at night, or to soothe them to sleep, without having to get out of bed. Others are portable, like the Slumber Carbon 3-in-1, that transforms into a travel cot, playpen and co-sleeper for use at home or on the go.
It is vital to keep in mind that, like all sleeping arrangements for your baby the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby sleeps on their backs in order to reduce the chance of SIDS. When choosing a mattress for your baby's crib, make sure it's firm and flat and fits snugly into the cot without gaps. It is also recommended to use a waterproof cover to shield your mattress from spills or accidents.
Celeb moms like Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead love bedside cribs, which are cots in the bassinet style that attach to the sides of your bed. They have an adjustable or lowered side, allowing you to reach your baby's neck to feed or soothe them during the night. They are also ideal for parents recovering after c-sections.
Portability
A crib for your bed is a great option to keep your baby close, particularly during the first few months, when nappy and night feed changes are a regular. It lets you take care of your baby's needs without having to leave your bed. It can also help your child build a close relationship with you. It also allows you to get some sleep.
The majority of bedside cots are portable, so you can move them around the room with ease. They are ideal for small spaces and can be used as a standalone crib or a bedside cot that is attached to the side of your bed. Some are even small enough to fit in your suitcase when you travel with your infant.
Some models are equipped with a collapsible front which makes it easier to lift your baby towards you during night feeding or to soothe them back to sleep. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, and can reduce the risk suffocation. Most cribs that are bedside are suitable for infants from six months old. However, certain cribs can be used by older infants.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee is a great choice for new parents as it's safe, versatile and comes with a bag. It has a stay-in-place connection system that can be attached to your bed, as well as six height settings that can be adjusted to meet your needs. It also has a drop-side to facilitate access, as well as an incline setting for babies with reflux or coughs.
Our testers were impressed that it was quick and easy to put together and that it can be folded away in just a few seconds, which made it an ideal option for traveling. It was also sturdy and they were pleased that it didn't come with any extra features such as lullabies or rocking.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design allows you to put your baby close to you. This is great for strengthening the bond between you and your baby. It has a storage compartment that can be used to store wipes, clothes and nappies, so you don't have to worry about leaving them behind. However, our testers from parents did mention that it was a bit bulky when packed away and that they would struggle with it when they went up and down the steps which is something you should consider for those who reside in a home with lots of steps.
Cost
Bedside cribs can be a secure alternative to cosleeping. They can help your child gain independence by separating your child's sleep space from that of you. This is especially useful 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 solution for parents who have trouble bending down to pick their baby up.
The majority of cots for bedside use can be attached to the main mattress, and come with a comfortable mattress for your baby. You can add additional bedding, like a soft fitted bed sheet to ensure your baby is safe and comfortable at night. bedside cot used that is breathable will keep the moisture off of the mattress and decrease your baby's risk of developing SIDS or allergies.
The price of a bedside crib may vary, but the majority are less than a full-size cot. They can also be a great present for the new parents. The Kinderkraft CoZee, for example, is a great value. It can be used as a bedside crib, standalone bed, or travel cot. It includes a breathable mattress and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is provided to increase comfort and prevent staining.
A trusted brand like SnuzPod can provide a wide range of colors and fabrics that will complement your baby's nursery or bedroom. The base is padded to cushion and provide support to your baby. A lot of cribs can be raised or lowered to suit the bed's height, and some even have a gentle reflux incline to aid your baby to sleep better.
You may be tempted to buy a second-hand bedside crib, but it's important to purchase a new mattress. Mattresses that are second-hand or old may increase the risk of your child developing SIDS, and they may not be as comfortable. It is essential to ensure that the mattress is properly fitted Some cribs were made to only fit certain brands.
You can also get a cot-bed that grows with your child. They can be more expensive, but they're a good investment for your child's safety and health. They're also a great choice if you plan to have more than one child.