Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is a piece of furniture that attaches securely to the side of a bed. This allows safe cosleeping. It allows you to see and reach your baby during nighttime feeds without having to disturb them. It is also ideal for those suffering from reflux.
The NHS suggests that your baby sleeps in a separate cot Moses basket or crib for the first six months. A bedside crib is a more affordable and practical alternative to a full-size cot.
Safety
Cots are safe and secure areas for babies to rest. They are protected by high sides to prevent babies from falling out. They also have a solid head and footboard, with a design cut out so that babies cannot become entangled. Soft toys, cot bumpers, and wedges can be a choking hazard.
The Lullaby Trust recommends that a baby should sleep in the same room as their parents for the first six months of life but not in their bed due to the danger of being suffocated. However, many parents struggle to resist the temptation to share their bed with a sleeping baby, so a bedside crib is a great choice for safe and peaceful co-sleeping. These cribs can be attached to the headboard or side of a parent’s bed to let you reach your child without needing to get out of bed. They also meet all safety standards.
If you're looking to buy a cot with an option to drop down overnight, look for the SnuzPod4. This crib features two-view mesh windows and an easy-to-clean wall which allows it to be used on its own to ensure a peaceful sleep. It also complies with the latest standard for cot safety and comes with a rocking feature that soothes babies to sleep.
Check that the crib has been cleaned thoroughly and is of the right size for your child. It should be at minimum 50cm deep to stop your child from climbing out of the cot as they increase in height. Also, ensure that you remove any stickers or transfers from the inside of the cot, as these can peel off and present the risk of choking.
The cot should not be placed too close to the sun or radiator as babies are susceptible to overheating and could be at an increased risk of developing SIDS. Blind cords should be removed as babies can get caught in them. Duvets, pillows and other beddings can choke babies, so the cot should be free of them.
It's also a good idea to read a cot safety guide before purchasing your baby a. The NHS and the Lullaby Trust have lots of helpful information and tips on safe baby sleep. You can also take part in an NCT New Baby Course to know more about safe sleep.
Design
Bedside cribs let you sleep with your baby in a safe and secure way. They are available in various designs. Some bassinets are attached to your bed, allowing you to easily raise your child to feed them at night or help soothe them to sleep, without having to get out of bed. Some are portable, such as the Slumber 3-in-1, a convertible travel cot that doubles as a cosleeper and playpen that could be used at home or on-the-go.
The Lullaby Trust advises that your baby should be sleeping on their back, regardless of the sleeping arrangement. This will help to lower the risk of SIDS. When choosing a mattress for your crib, ensure that it is firm and flat and fits perfectly in the crib without gaps. It is also recommended to use a mattress cover that is breathable to protect the mattress from spills and accidents.
Celebrity moms like Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead are huge fans of bedside cribs. They are cots in the bassinet style that attach to the side of your bed. They come with an adjustable or drop down side that lets you be close to your baby for nighttime feeding or soothing. They are particularly useful for parents recovering from c-sections.
Portability
A crib for your bed is a great way to keep your baby close, especially during the early months when nappy changes and nighttime feeds changes are routine. It lets you be attentive to your baby's needs without having to leave your bed. It also helps your child develop a strong relationship with you. It also helps you get some restful sleep yourself.
Most bedside cots can be moved, so you can move them around the room with ease. They are ideal for small spaces and can be used as a stand-alone crib or a bedside cot that is attached to the side of your bed. Some are even compact enough to fit in your suitcase when you travel with your baby.
Certain models come with a collapsible side, which makes it easy to carry your baby towards you during night feeding or to soothe them back to sleep. This can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, and can reduce the chance of suffocation. The majority of cribs in the bed are suitable for babies up to six months, although some are suitable for older babies.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is an excellent choice for new parents as it's safe, versatile and comes with a bag for travel. It features a stay-in place connection system that can be attached to your bed and six height settings that can be adjusted to fit your needs. It has a drop-side to make it easier to access, and an incline option for babies with reflux or coughs.
Our testers were impressed that it was quick and easy to put together and that it could be folded away in seconds making it a great choice for travelling. It was also sturdy and they appreciated the fact that it didn't include extra features like rocking or lullabies.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design lets you to keep your child close to you. This is great for enhancing the bond between you and your child. It has a storage area that can be used to store your baby's clothes, wipes, and nappies so you don't have to worry about leaving them in the house. wooden bedside cot who tested it said it was bulky when packed away, and that they would have a difficult time carrying it up and down the stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs can be a secure alternative to cosleeping. They can help your child gain independence by separating his or her sleep environment from the one you share with them. This is particularly beneficial in the early months in which your baby will require frequent nappy and sleep changes. It's also a great option for parents who find it difficult to bend down to pick up their newborn.
Most bedside cots are easily connected to the main mattress, and come with a breathable mattress for your baby. You can also add bedding, including a soft fitted sheet to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe during the night. A comfortable, breathable cover will help keep moisture away from the mattress and lower the risk of SIDS and allergies.
The cost of a bedside crib can be different, but they are typically less expensive than the price of a larger crib. These cribs can also be ideal gifts for new parents. The Kinderkraft CoZee, for example, is a great value. It can be used as a bedside crib, a standalone bed, or a travel cot. It is equipped with a comfortable mattress and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is available to increase comfort and to prevent the accumulation of stains.
SnuzPod is a well-known brand, offers a variety of colors and fabrics that will match your baby's nursery or bedroom. The base is cushioned to protect and support your baby. A majority of cribs can be adjusted to fit the height of your mattress, and some even have a gentle angle of reflux to aid your child in sleeping better.
It's tempting to purchase an old crib for your bed. But, it's essential to purchase new mattresses. Second-hand mattresses or ones that are used may increase the risk of your child developing SIDS, and they might not be as supportive. It is also essential to ensure that the mattress fits correctly Certain cribs are designed to fit certain brands of mattresses only.
Another option is to buy a cot that is suitable for your child when they're older. These can be a bit more expensive however they're an excellent investment for your child's safety as well as health. They're also a great option if you're planning to have more than one child.