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's important that the crib is secure and regularly inspected for gaps that could pose a suffocation risk. Some cribs can be converted, with conversion kits to transform them into standalone baby cribs as your baby grows.
Safety
A bedside cot bed is similar to a baby bassinet however it is attached to the mattress you already have instead of being placed on the floor. They're very popular with parents who want their newborn to be close enough for feeding, comforting and night-time diaper changes. They're also an essential part of safe cosleeping or rooming in.
If you opt for a sliding bed or a 4-in-1 bedside sleeper, it's important to have a compatible cot mattress that fits in the cot bed snugly. Make sure it doesn't slide or have any bulges and that it is in compliance with safety standards, including the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. Verify that the mattress is clean, free of cracks and tears and is free of loose threads.
A crib near the bed allows mothers to respond quickly to their newborn's needs, whether that is nursing or bottle feeding. This will help them keep their milk supply. Also, they can feed their babies without getting up or out of bed. This helps promote healthy sleep habits for parents and their babies.
Most bedside cots have mesh that is attached to the sides to prevent babies from getting trapped or strangled. It is essential to check the mesh for any tears or loose threads that could get caught or catch baby's clothing, and to make sure there aren't any other dangers like protruding handles and bars that could encourage your child to get out of the cot bed. Also, look out for parts made of plastic that are hot to the touch and avoid sharp edges or splinters.
Convenience
A bedside cot allows you to keep your baby close by so you can be able to respond to their needs throughout the night without having to get from your bed. The closeness of the cot can make it easier to feed them or change them, and also comfort the baby when they wake up especially in the early stages of parenthood, promoting better sleep for both of you. It is beneficial in creating a breastfeeding connection.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also referred to as a sidecar or bedside basset. It's a safe method of co-sleeping which reduces the risk of sudden death syndrome (SIDS). for beginners allows babies to sleep close to parents, which can help mothers establish a breastfeeding connection and also get more rest during the first few months after birth.
The majority of cribs come with an adjustable or drop-down side that allows you to take the baby out of the crib without leaving your bed. This helps you attend to their needs during the night. Some even come with the option of manual rocking, which can be particularly useful for babies that are suffering 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 come with an under-bed storage space. This is a great spot to store blankets and nappy. This is a great place to store baby accessories, and other things. Some convertible beds means they can be transformed from a side-sleeper to the size of a full-sized or toddler bed when your child grows older.
Home tester and MFM mom Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a great option for your little one," saying it's not too large or bulky that means it won't take up a lot of space in your bedroom. She also loved the fact that it has two sleeping heights so that you can alter it according to 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're also a godsend for mothers who've had a c-section as you don't need to get out of bed to reach your baby, and they can speed up recovery time. Look for cot beds that are compatible with the frame you prefer and securely attach to the parent's mattress. Some models also come with a detachable 4th wall that can be lowered down when not in use, to keep your baby safe and away from danger.
Budget
If you're considering buying a bedside crib, it's essential to consider the amount of money you can afford. These are generally more expensive than a cot or moses basket, but you can find them to suit all budgets by doing some online shopping. You'll also need a safe crib mattress and a soft and comfortable bedding set. These can be purchased online with optional add-ons such as a blanket or teether.
If you're looking for an alternative to a bedside cot, you might want to think about a sliding crib or a 4-in-1 bedside sleeper. They're similar to a bedside cot, but they can be put in place next to your bed without gaps. 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 much space in your home, and come with features such as a drop-down side or tilt for easy access to your baby. The only downside to these is that they only last up to six months. You'll have to move your child to an cot or moses-shell after this time.