Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a side sleeper or bassinet) attaches to the parent's bed for secure co-sleeping. You can easily reach your child during the night for feedings and comforting, without disturbing your sleep.
It is important to ensure that the crib is attached securely and regularly checked for any gaps that could be an suffocation risk. Some cribs can be converted into cots for the growing baby by using conversion kits.
Safety
A bedside cot bed is similar to a bassinet for babies, but it attaches to the mattress you already have instead of sitting on the floor. They're loved by parents who want their baby to be easily accessible for feeding, comforting and night-time diaper changes. They're also a key component of safe cosleeping (also known as rooming-in) and help reduce the risk of SIDS.
You'll need to select the cot mattress that fits comfortably into the cot bed, whether you choose to use the sliding bed. Be sure that it doesn't slump or have any bulges and that it is in compliance with safety standards such as the Lullaby trust's guidelines. If you're buying a second-hand crib mattress, ensure that it's free of tears or cracks, and isn't brimming with threads that your baby could get caught in.
The close proximity of a bedside crib allows mothers to respond to their newborns' needs during the night, including feeding them with bottles or breastfeeding, and aiding them in maintaining their milk supply. It also allows them to feed their babies without having to get up or out of bed. This promotes healthy sleeping habits for parents and babies.
The majority of bedside cots are equipped with mesh that is securely connected to the sides of the cot to minimize the chance of a baby getting caught or trapped in the gaps. It is important to check the mesh for any tears or loose threads that could strangle or catch baby's clothing and also to ensure there aren't any other hazards like protruding handles and bars that could cause your baby to climb out of the cot bed. Likewise, look for any parts made of plastic that could be hot to the touch, and avoid any sharp edges or splinters.
Cots For Tots is possible to keep your baby close so that you can respond to their needs at any point during the night without leaving your bed. The closeness of the cot can make it easier for you to feed them or change them and soothe the baby when they wake up especially in the early stages of parenthood, encouraging better sleep for both of you. It can also assist in establishing a breastfeeding connection.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also called a sidecar or bedside basset. It's a safe method of co-sleeping which reduces the risk of sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It allows babies to rest close to their parents and is a great method for mothers to build the bond of breastfeeding and also help them get more rest during the first few months following birth.
Most models come with the option of a drop-down or removable side, which allows you to remove your baby from the crib without having to leave your bed. This makes it easier to attend to their needs throughout the night. Some models also have an option for manual rocking which is particularly helpful for resettling babies who have reflux. A majority of these cribs are smaller than moses or a standard cot basket, which makes them lighter and take up less space.
Some beds come with an under-bed storage space. This is a great place to store blankets and nappy. It's a great spot to store baby accessories, and other things. There are some that are convertible, which means they can be converted from a side-sleeper to an adult-sized crib or toddler bed as your child grows older.
Home tester and MFM mother Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a great option for your little one," saying it's not too bulky or large and won't take up a lot of space in the bedroom. She also loved that it has 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 allow you to lower one side of the crib to your reach for nighttime feeding or soothing. They are also great for mums recovering from a csection, as they don't require you to climb up to reach your child. If you're thinking about this kind of cot, look for models that can be securely attached to the parent's bed and are compatible with your particular bed frame. Some models also feature an adjustable fourth wall that can be lowered down when not in use to ensure your baby is safe and out of harm's way.
Budget
If you're considering buying a bedside crib, you need to consider the budget you have available. They're more expensive than a moses's basket or cot, however they can be found at a price that fits all budgets. You'll require an infant crib mattress that is safe for infants as well as an airy and soft set of bedding. These are available online with optional add-ons like a blanket or a teether.
Consider a 4-in-1 or sliding crib as an alternative to the bedside cot. They're similar to a bedside cot bed but they can be slid into place next to your bed with no gaps between them. They can also be converted into a regular mattress when your child is old enough to use them. These are also great for those with limited space. They are equipped with features such as tilting or a drop-down side to make it easier to access your baby. The only drawback to these is that they're only good for up to six months. You'll need to put your child to an cot or moses-shell after this period.