Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a side sleeper or bassinet) attaches to the parent's bed to allow safe co-sleeping. You can easily reach your child at night for feedings and comforting, without disturbing your sleep.
It is essential to make sure that the crib is attached securely and that it's regularly inspected for any gaps that could be an suffocation risk. Some cribs can also be converted and have conversion kits to convert them into standalone cribs as your baby grows.
Safety
Bedside beds are similar to baby bassinets however, they attach to the mattress you already have instead of sitting on the ground. They're loved by parents who want their child to be close enough for feeding, comforting and night-time diaper changes. They're also a crucial component of safe cosleeping, or rooming in.
You'll need to choose a cot mattress that is a perfect fit for the bed of your cot, whether you choose to use a sliding bed. Make sure bedside cosleeper doesn't slide or bulge and that it complies with safety standards as well as the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. Verify that the mattress is free of cracks and tears and is free of loose threads.
A crib next to the bed allows mothers to react quickly to their newborns needs, whether it is bottle-feeding or breastfeeding. This will help them keep their milk supply. It also allows them to feed their babies without getting up or out of bed. This promotes healthy sleep habits for parents and their babies.
The majority of bedside cots are fitted with a mesh that's securely attached to the sides of the cot, reducing the chance of a baby being trapped or entangled in the gaps. Regularly inspect the mesh to find tears or loose threads that could entangle or catch the baby's clothing. Also, ensure that there aren't any other dangers such as handles or bars that protrude which could cause your child to climb out of the bed. Look out for any plastic that is hot to the touch, and avoid any sharp edges.
Convenience
It is possible to keep your baby close so that you can respond to his or her needs at any time throughout the night without leaving your bed. This closeness makes it simpler to feed or change your baby once they awake. It can be beneficial in establishing a breastfeeding connection.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also referred to as a sidecar or bedside bassinet. It's a secure form of co-sleeping that reduces the risk of sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets babies sleep with their parents, which helps mothers establish a breastfeeding relationship and also get more rest in the first few months following the birth.
Many models come with a drop-down or removable side that allows you to lift the baby out of the crib without having to leave your bed, making it easier to attend to their needs during the night. Some even come with a manual rocking function, which can be particularly useful for babies that suffer from reflux. Many of these types of cribs are smaller than moses or a standard cot basket, making them lighter and take up less space.
Some beds have a storage space underneath. This is a great space to store blankets and nappy. It's also a useful storage space for toys and other baby items. It's possible to find some that are convertible, meaning they can be converted from a side-sleeper to an adult-sized crib or toddler bed as your child gets older.
Home tester and MFM mum Jasmine describes the MoMi SMART BED as "a excellent option for your little one," saying it's not too big or bulky and won't take up too much space in your bedroom. She also liked the fact that it comes with two different sleeping heights, so you can adjust it based on your baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots are bassinet-style cots that attach to your bed and let you lower one side of the crib to your reach for nighttime feeding or for soothing. They're also an excellent option for mothers who've had a c-section as you don't need to get out of bed to reach your baby, and can help speed up recovery time. If you're thinking about this kind of cot, look for ones that are securely attached to the parent's bed and are compatible with your specific bed frame. Some models come with an optional 4th wall that can be removed when not in use to keep your child safe.
Budget
When you are looking to purchase a bedside baby crib, you should think about your budget. They're more expensive than a moses' basket or cot, however they are available at a price that fits the majority of budgets. You'll require an infant crib mattress that is safe for infants, as well as a comfortable and breathable set of bedding. They can be bought online with optional add-ons such as a teether or blanket.
Think about a sliding or 4-in-1 crib as an alternative to the bedside cot. These are similar to a bedside cot bed but they can slide into place next to your bed without gaps between them. They can also be converted into a regular mattress once your child gets out of them. They are also ideal if you don't have a lot of space in your home, and they come with features like a drop down side or tilt to provide easy access to your baby. The only downside is that they tend to last only up to 6 months, which means you'll need to transfer your baby to a cot or moses shell at this point.