20 Myths About Bedside Cots: Debunked
Bedside Cots
A bedside crib, also known as a side sleeper or bassinet is a bed that can be attached to the parent's bed and allows baby to sleep close to the parent. They are a safe method to sleep together and are ideal for mothers who are recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be very quick and easy to assemble (one of the quickest during testing). It is height-adjustable and can be angled to an inclined position to assist reflux babies.
They're secure
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're often referred to, are specially designed infant sleeping solutions that allow infants to sleep beside their parents without a risk of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but are connected to the side of a parent's bed. One side is open, so parents can easily reach their infant sleeping. These are great for families who wish to co-sleep, but are concerned about the potential risks of bed sharing.
Many are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has discovered that when used properly, these products are safe and have a low risk of injuries and accidents. These cribs are also a good choice for parents who are new and struggling with the exhaustion of late night feedings and early morning diaper changes. Bedside cribs allow you to monitor your little one and if they get up during the night or need you to help them, you'll be able to soothe them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a secure bedside cot, you should pick one with a sturdy, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable can aid in regulating the temperature of your baby's body and prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is recommended and so is a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. All these items can be found online or in stores that specialize in baby products. Do not use second-hand or hand-me down products. large bedside crib could have been recalls, damaged or not up to the safety standards.
A quality bedside crib is simple to put together and can be removed when not in use. Some models also have inclined positions that can be adjusted which makes it easier for babies to sleep in a higher position, or for parents with reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them on a trip.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are simple to clean, particularly with the right cleaning products. Remove any bedding such as blankets, sheets or toys that are cuddly and wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special attention to the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors can help to reduce the growth of dust mites, bacteria and other germs.
Next, clean the cot using an abrasive cloth soaked with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to wash soapy residue off and keep the surface as clean as you can. If the mattress has staining then use a gentle scrub brush to clean them, and add a little baking soda to help eliminate lingering odours. Always test a small portion of the mattress first to ensure the cleaning product is safe for your child.
It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot when it has been removed from its structure. You can even make use of a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to wash the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is made of wood It can be cleaned by mixing warm water and vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without leaving harmful residues or causing damage to the wood. Test the mixture on a small section of the wood to ensure it won't damage it. Then apply travel bedside crib using a soft cloth and allow it to dry before putting back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet is a specifically designed infant sleeping solution that allows your baby to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact, portable and easy to move around. They are also ideal for homes with small spaces or you plan on traveling with your child.
Bedside cribs, unlike standard cribs, are designed to attach on the sides of your mattress so that you can easily raise and lower your baby to feed them at night or soothe. They usually come with a removable or drop-down side that's perfect for easy lifting and also tilt and height adjustments. Some cribs even convert into full cribs as your child grows offering you more durability and value.
Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them ideal for traveling. "It's extremely compact and small and can easily fit in its own bag for travel and be moved around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband is able to carry it upstairs and down easily."
The Shnuggle Air alongside Crib is another lightweight option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and believes it's durable too. However, she adds that it's a little larger than other cribs for bed and isn't suitable for infants who are likely to flip or roll.
They're comfortable
The best bedside cribs let babies sleep close to their parents however, they have their own sleep space. They're generally more compact than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they can be folded and put away when not being used. They're also much easier to reach when it comes to night feedings, changing nappies and relaxing. This makes them perfect for new mothers who are recovering from a c-section, as they won't need to bend as far down to take care of their infant during the middle of the night.
The crib is also a great option for parents who are worried about the dangers associated with co-sleeping. The crib is situated closer to the bed of the parent and has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is important for a baby's development.
You can also purchase bedsides in a variety of styles. Some include an inflatable bed that you can take to your next trip and others can be transformed into a baby crib or toddler's bed. Some even have incline positions, which can be great for babies with reflux. There is also a crib that is attached to the bed of the parent or has locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being accidentally moved when the baby is sleeping.
If you're considering a crib beside your bed, ensure it's a ventilated and sturdy mattress for your baby. This will ensure the security of your child. We suggest choosing a foam mattress that's covered with a soft and sturdy cover. This will keep your baby warm and comfortable while they sleep.
There are bedsides that are easy to collapse and slide down which is a wonderful feature for those 3am bleary-eyed feeds. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit in its bag for travel, which is a bonus for parents who are always who are always on the move.