Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an accessory that can be secured to the side of a bed. This allows safe cosleeping. It lets you view 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 infant sleep in their own cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib is a more economical and practical alternative to a full size cot.
Safety
Cots are secure and safe spaces for babies to sleep. They are surrounded by high sides that prevent babies from falling out. The solid head and footboards have shapes cut into them to keep babies from getting trapped. Additionally, the cot should not be cluttered with soft toys, cot bumpers, and wedges that could pose a choking risk.
The Lullaby Trust advises that babies should not sleep in their parents' bed for the first six month of their lives due to the danger of being suffocated. A bedside crib can be the ideal solution for parents who are unable to resist the desire to share their bed with a child who is sleeping. These cribs are specifically designed to be attached to the side of the bed where you can easily reach your child without stepping out of the bed, and they conform to all safety requirements.
If you're looking for a crib with the ability to slide down overnight, look for the SnuzPod4. This crib has dual-view mesh windows and a zip-down wall that allows it to be used on its own for a good night's sleep. It also meets the new safety standards for cots and comes with a a rocking feature that soothes infants to sleep.
When selecting a cot, ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is the appropriate size for your child. It should be at least 50cm deep to prevent your child from escaping as they increase in height. Also, ensure that you remove any stickers or transfers from the inside of the cot as they can fall off and pose a choking hazard.
The cot shouldn't be too close to a sunlight or radiator since babies can overheat and be at risk of developing SIDS. Blind cords should be removed as babies can be trapped by cords. Duvets, pillows and other beddings can choke babies, which is why the cot should be free of them.
travel cot bedside crib is also recommended to read the safety guidelines for cots before purchasing a cot for your baby. The NHS and Lullaby Trust provide a wealth of information and guidance on safe baby sleeping. You can also take part in an NCT New Baby Course to know more about safe sleep.
Design
Bedside cribs allow you to co-sleep safely with your baby. They are available in various styles. Some bassinets are attached to your bed which allows you to raise your child to feed them at night, or to soothe them to sleep without getting out of bed. Some are portable, such as the Slumber 3-in-1, which is a convertible travel cot that doubles as a cosleeper, and playpen that can be utilized at home or while on the go.
It is important to remember that, like any sleeping arrangement for your baby the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby is sleeping on their backs in order to reduce the risk of SIDS. When selecting a mattress to fit your baby's crib, make sure it is firm and flat and fits snugly into the cot without gaps. It is also recommended to use a mattress cover that is breathable to shield the mattress from accidents and spills.
Celebrity moms like Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead love bedside cribs, which are bassinet-style cots that attach to the sides of your bed. They have a removable or lowered side, allowing you to touch your baby's face to soothe or feed them at night. They are also great for parents recovering from C-sections.
Portability
A bedside crib is a great way to keep your baby close during the first few months, when nappy changes and nighttime feeds changes are regular. It lets you attend to your baby's needs without having to get from your bed, and also helps your baby build an intimate relationship with you. It also helps you get some restful sleep yourself.
Most bedside cots are able to be moved around the room. They are ideal for smaller spaces. They can be used as a crib that is attached to your bed or used as a standalone crib. Some are even small enough to fit inside your suitcase if you're travelling with your baby.
Some models come with an element that can be collapsed, making it easier to carry your child up to you to feed them at night or to soothe him back to sleep. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers and reduce the risk suffocation. The majority of cribs for bedside use are suitable for babies up to six months, although some are suitable for older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is a fantastic option for parents who are new as it's safe, versatile and comes with a travel bag. It has a stay-in-place connection system for attaching to your bed, and has six height options to suit your preferences. It also features a drop-side for easy access and an incline option which is perfect for newborns with reflux or coughs.
Our testers loved the fact that it was fast and easy to assemble, and that it could be folded away in just a few seconds and was an ideal option for traveling. It was also durable and they liked that it didn't have any extra features such as lullabies or rocking.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design enables you to keep your baby close to you and helps in building a stronger bond between you. It also comes with a useful storage space that can be used for nappies diapers, baby wipes, and clothes and you don't have to worry about leaving them alone. However, our parents who tested it did say that it was a bit heavy when packed away and that they struggled with it when they went up and down the steps which is something you should be aware of when you reside in a home with many stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are the most secure alternative to co-sleeping. They can help your baby develop independence by separating their sleeping environment from yours. This is especially beneficial in the first few months of life, when your baby may require frequent nappy or night changes. It's also a great option for parents who have trouble getting their child up.
Most bedside cots are easily attached to the main mattress and come with a comfortable mattress for your baby. You can also add bedding, like a soft fitted sheet to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe during the night. A comfortable, breathable mattress cover will keep the moisture off of the mattress and reduce the risk of SIDS or allergies.
The price of a bedside crib may be different, but they are usually less than the cost of a larger crib. They are also a great present for the new parents. The CoZee from Kinderkraft is a fantastic example, providing excellent value for money. It can be used as an end-of-bed crib, standalone bed, or a travel cot, and it includes a breathable mattress and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is available to increase comfort and prevent staining.
SnuzPod, a reputable brand, has a wide range of colors and fabrics that will complement the nursery or bedroom of your baby. The base is padded to cushion and support your baby. Many of their cribs can be adjusted to fit the height of your bed, and some even have a gentle reflux incline to aid your baby in sleeping better.
It's tempting to purchase a used crib for your bed. However, it is crucial to buy new mattresses. Old or second-hand mattresses can increase your baby's risk of SIDS, and they may not be as dependable. It's also important to ensure that the mattress is fitted correctly - some cribs are designed to fit specific brands of mattresses.
Another option is to get a cot bed that is suitable for your baby when they're older. They're more expensive, but are a great investment in the health and safety of your child. They're also a good option if you're planning on have more than one child.