Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bassinet or side sleeper, is attached to a parent's bed and allows for secure cosleeping. bedside crib or cot allows you to easily reach your baby during night feeds and comforting, without disrupting your sleep.
It is crucial to make sure that the crib is secured securely and regularly inspected for any gaps that could create a suffocation hazard. Some cribs are also convertible and have conversion kits to convert them into standalone cots as your baby grows.
Safety
Bedside beds are similar to bassinets for babies however they are attached to the mattress you already have instead of sitting on the ground. They're very popular with parents who want their newborn to be easily accessible for feeding, comforting and even for night-time diaper changes. They're also a crucial component of safe cosleeping, or rooming in.
If you opt for a sliding bed or a four-in-one bedside sleeper, it's important to have a compatible cot mattress that fits into the cot bed comfortably. Ensure that it doesn't sag or have any bulges and that it is in compliance with safety standards, including the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib mattress, make sure it's clean and free from cracks or tears and isn't brimming with threads that a baby might get caught in.
The close proximity of a crib at bedtime allows mothers to quickly respond to their infants' needs during the night, including feeding their babies with bottles and breastfeeding, as well as helping them maintain their milk supply. It also allows them to feed their babies without getting up or get out of bed. This promotes healthy sleeping habits for parents and their babies.
Most bedside cot beds have mesh that's securely attached to the sides of the cot, reducing the risk of a baby being trapped or entangled in the gaps. Check the mesh regularly to look for tears or loose threads which could entangle or catch the baby's clothes. Also, ensure that there are no other dangers such as handles or bars that protrude which could cause your child to climb out of the bed. Beware of any plastic that is hot to the touch, and beware of any sharp edges.
Convenience
You can keep your baby close to you to be able to respond to their needs at any time during the night without having to leave your bed. This closeness makes it easier to feed and change, as well as comfort your baby when they awake. It can also help in establishing a breastfeeding connection.
This type of infant sleep solution is also called a bedside bassinet or sidecar. It's a safe form of co-sleeping which reduces the chance of suffering from sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets newborns rest close to their parents which is a wonderful way for mums to establish an intimate breastfeeding relationship and assist them get more rest during the first few months following birth.
Many models come with a slide-down or removable side that allows you to lift the baby from the crib without having to get out of your bed, which makes it easy to attend to the needs of your baby at night. Some models include a manual rocking feature that is especially useful for babies suffering from reflux. A lot of these cribs are smaller than a standard cot or moses basket, which makes them less bulky and take up less room.
Some beds come with a storage space underneath, which is great for stashing blankets and nappies. It's also a good storage space for toys and other baby-related items. There are some that are convertible, meaning they can change from a side-sleeper, to a full-sized crib or toddler bed as your child grows older.
Home tester and MFM mum Jasmine describes the MoMi SMART BED as "a excellent option for your baby," saying it's not too bulky or large and won't take up a lot of space in the bedroom. She also liked the fact that it can be adjusted to the height of it depending on the baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots, also known as bassinets with style, are attached to your bed. They let you lower the side of your crib so that it's close enough to you at night for feeding or relaxing. They're also a godsend for mums who've had a csection, since you don't need to get up to reach your baby and they can speed the recovery process. Look for cot beds that can be used with the frame you prefer and securely connect to the mattress of your parent. Some models also feature an adjustable 4th wall that can be dropped down when not in use to keep your baby safe and out of danger.
Budget
If you're looking to buy a bedside crib, you need to think about the amount of money you can afford. They are more expensive than a moses' basket or cot, however they can be found at a price that suits most budgets. You'll also need a baby-safe crib mattress and a comfortable and breathable bedding set. You can buy them online and can also add on accessories like blankets, a baby teether or a cuddly toys for the complete set.
Consider a 4-in-1 or sliding crib as an alternative to a bedside cot. They're like a cot but they can be slid into place beside your own bed with no gaps between and can be transformed into a regular mattress when your child is old enough to use them. They are also great for those who have a small space. They come with features like a tilt or drop-down sides to make it easier to access your baby. The only downside to these is that they're only able to last up to six months. You'll need to transfer your child to an cot or moses-shell after this time.
