Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is a piece of furniture that is secured to the bed's side. This allows safe cosleeping. It lets you see your baby and reach them for their night feedings without disturbing them. It's also great for those with reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your infant sleep in their own separate cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib is a cost-effective and practical alternative to a full-size cot.
Safety
Cots are safe and secure places for babies to sleep. They are built with high sides to stop babies from falling. They also have a sturdy head and footboard that has shapes cut out so that babies do not get caught in. In addition the cot should be free from soft toys, cot bumpers and wedges that can be a choking risk.
The Lullaby Trust recommends that a baby should be in the same space as their parents for the first six months of life but not in their bed due to the risk of suffocation. A bedside crib can be the ideal solution for parents who are struggling to resist the temptation of sharing their bed with a child who is sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached to the sides of the bed where you can reach your baby easily without stepping out of the bed, and adhere to all safety standards.
If you're looking to buy a cot with the ability to slide down for the night, consider the SnuzPod4. This crib features two-view mesh windows and an easy-to-clean wall which allows it to be used by itself to get a good night's sleep. It also complies with the latest standard for cot safety and has a rocking function that helps babies sleep.
When you are choosing a cot check that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is of a suitable size for your child. It should be at least 50cm deep to prevent your child from leaving the cot as they grow. Also, ensure that you take away any stickers and transfer paper from the inside of the cot, as these can peel off and create an choking risk.
The cot shouldn't be placed too close to a radiator or sunny window, as babies are more at risk of SIDS due to overheating. Blind cords should be taken off as babies could be trapped by cords. Duvets, pillows and other beddings can choke infants, so the cot should be free of them.
It's recommended to study a cot safety guide before you buy your baby one. bedside crib and travel cot and Lullaby Trust provide a wealth of information and guidance regarding safe sleeping for your baby. 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 a variety of styles. Some bassinets attach to your bed which allows you to lift your child up to feed them at night, or to soothe them to sleep without getting out of bed. Some are portable, like the Slumber 3-in-1, which is a convertible travel cot, a cosleeper, and playpen that can be used at home or when you are on the move.
It is crucial to keep in mind that, as with all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby sleeps on their back to help reduce the risk of SIDS. When selecting a crib mattress make sure it is flat and firm, and that it fits perfectly into the crib without any gaps. It is also recommended to use a mattress cover that is breathable to protect the mattress from spills and accidents.
Celeb mums such as Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead love bedside cribs, which are cots with a bassinet design that are attached to the side of your bed. They come with a drop-down or removable side that lets you reach your baby during the night for feeding or soothing, and are particularly useful for parents who have had c-sections recovering.
Portability
A crib that is placed near your bed allows you to keep your baby close at all times, particularly during the first few months of life, when nighttime feedings and diaper changes are common. It allows you to attend to your baby's requirements without having to leave your bed. It also helps your child establish an intimate relationship with you. It can also help you get some sleep.
Most bedside cots can be moved around the room. They are perfect for small spaces and can be used as a stand-alone crib or attached to the side of your bed. Some are small enough to fit in your suitcase when traveling with your baby.
Some models have an element that can be collapsed, making it easier to carry your child out to you to feed them at night or calm him back to sleep. This can be beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, and can reduce the chance of suffocation. The majority of cribs for bedside use are suitable for babies up to six months old, however some are suitable for older babies.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee is a great choice for parents who are new because it's safe, versatile and comes with bags. It comes with a stay-in-place connection system to attach to your bed, as well as six height settings that can be adjusted to fit your needs. It also has a drop-side to facilitate access, and an incline setting for babies with coughs or reflux.
Our testers loved the fact that it was quick and easy to assemble, and that it can be folded away in a matter of seconds and was a great choice for travelling. They also said that it was durable, and while they did not like that it didn't rock or provide extra features like the sound of lullabies, they also said that it made for an excellent travel cot.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design lets you to sleep your child close to you. This helps to strengthen the bond between you and your baby. It has a storage compartment that can be used to store wipes, clothes and nappies, so you won't have any worries about leaving them at home. Our parent testers reported that it was bulky when it was packed away, and they would have difficulty carrying it up and down stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are a safe alternative to cosleeping. They can aid your child in developing independence by separating your child's sleep environment from that of you. This is particularly useful in the early months in which your baby will need frequent nappy and night changes. It's also a great option for parents who struggle bending down to pick their baby up.
The majority of bedside cots can be attached to the main mattress, and include a breathable mattress for your baby. You can add extra bedding, such as an incredibly soft fitted bed sheet to keep your baby secure and comfortable during the night. A soft, breathable mattress cover will keep moisture off the mattress and decrease your baby's chances of suffering from SIDS or allergies.
The cost of a bedside cot can vary, but most are less than a full-size cot. These cribs are also ideal gifts for new parents. The Kinderkraft CoZee is a fantastic example, providing excellent value for money. It can be used as an end-of-the-line crib or as a standalone bed. It also includes a breathable mattress and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is available to increase comfort and protect against staining.
A reputable brand such as SnuzPod can provide a variety of fabrics and colors to 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 have a gentle reflux angle to help your child sleep better.
You may be tempted to purchase a second-hand crib for your bed however, it is essential to purchase a new mattress. Old or second-hand mattresses can increase the risk of your child developing SIDS, and they may not be as comfortable. It's also important to ensure that the mattress is fitted correctly Some cribs are made to fit certain brands of mattresses only.
Another option is to purchase a cot bed that will be suitable for your child as they grow older. These are more expensive but are a great investment in the safety and health of your child. They're also a great choice for those who plan on having more than one baby.