Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an attachment that can be secured to the bed's side. This allows safe cosleeping. It allows you to view and reach your baby for nighttime feeds without disturbing them. It's also great for those suffering from reflux.
The NHS recommends that your baby sleeps in a separate cot Moses basket or crib for the first 6 months. A bedside crib is a practical and cost-effective alternative to a larger crib.
Safety
Cots are secure and safe places for babies to sleep. They are built with high sides to keep babies from falling. The solid footboards and headboards have a shape cut into them to prevent babies from becoming trapped. Soft toys, cot bumpers, and wedges can pose a choking hazard.
The Lullaby Trust advises that babies should not be sleeping in their parents' beds for the first six months of their lives due to the risk in suffocation. A bedside crib can be an ideal solution for parents who find it difficult to resist the attraction of sharing their bed with a child who is sleeping. These cribs are designed to be affixed to the side of a parent's bed so you can easily reach your child without stepping out of the bed, and adhere to all safety requirements.
If you're looking for a cot with the ability to slide down overnight, look for the SnuzPod4. The crib has a dual-view mesh window and a zip down wall, allowing it to be used as a standalone unit for a good sleep. It also meets the new safety standards for cots and comes with a the feature of rocking to soothe infants to sleep.
When you are choosing a cot check that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is of the right size for your child. It should be at minimum 50cm deep to prevent your child from leaving the cot as they increase in height. Also, be sure to remove stickers and transfers from the inside of the cot, as they may peel off and pose a choking hazard.
The cot shouldn't be placed too close to a radiator or sunny window, since babies are at greater risk of SIDS due to overheating. Blind cords should be removed as babies can get strangled by them. The crib should also be free of pillows, duvets and other bedding, as they can cause suffocation.
It's also a good idea to study a cot safety guide before purchasing your baby one. The NHS and Lullaby Trust provide a wealth of information and guidance on safe baby sleeping. You can also take part in an NCT New Baby course to learn more about sleeping safely.
Design
Bedside cribs let you co-sleep safely with your baby. They come in various designs. Some are bassinet-style, and connects to your bed so you can easily lift your baby for a night feed or help soothe them back to sleep without getting out of bed. Some are portable, like the Slumber 3-in-1, a convertible travel cot that doubles as a cosleeper and playpen that could be used at home or when you are on the move.
It is vital to remember that, like all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your child sleeps on their backs in order to reduce the risk of SIDS. When choosing a mattress for your crib, ensure that it is firm and flat, and that it is able to fit snugly within the crib without gaps. It is also recommended that you put on a mattress cover with breathable to protect the mattress from accidents and spills.
Bedside cribs are bassinets which attach to the side of your mattress. Stacey Solomon, Binky Felstead and others love these cribs. These cribs have the option of lowering or taking off the side, allowing you to reach your baby's neck to soothe them or feed them during the night. They are also ideal for parents recovering from c-sections.
Portability
A crib that is placed near your bed allows you to keep your baby close to you at all times, especially in the beginning of their life, when nighttime feedings and diaper changes are frequent. It allows you to attend to your baby's requirements without having to step from your bed, and helps your little one establish an intimate relationship with you. It also allows you to get some sleep.
The majority of bedside cots are portable, so you can move them around your room easily. They are perfect for smaller areas. They can be used as a crib that is attached to your bed or used as an independent crib. Some are even small enough to fit inside your luggage if you're traveling with your infant.
Some models have an element that can be collapsed, making it easier to lift your child up to to feed them at night or to soothe him back to sleep. This can be beneficial for mothers who are breastfeeding, and can reduce the chance of suffocation. The majority of cribs for bedside use are suitable for infants as young as six months. However, some cribs can be used for older babies.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is an excellent choice for parents who are new as it's versatile, safe and comes with a travel bag. It features a stay-in place connection system that can be attached to your bed, and six height settings that can be adjusted to suit your requirements. It features a drop-side that can make it easier to access, and an incline option for babies with reflux or coughs.
It was simple to put together, and it can be folded in just a few seconds. This made it a great option for travel. It was also sturdy and they appreciated that it didn't have any additional features, like rocking or lullabies.
The Chicco Next2me Magic is another shortlisted bedside cot that our parents loved. Its unique design allows you to sleep your baby close to you, which is great for building bonds between you. It has a storage compartment that can be used to store your baby's clothes, wipes, and nappies so you won't have any worries about leaving them at home. However, our parents who tested it did mention that it was bulky when packed away and that they would struggle with it when they went up and down the stairs, which is something to be aware of if you reside in a house that has lots of stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are a safe alternative to cosleeping. They can aid your child in developing independence by separating his or her sleep environment from that of you. This is especially beneficial in the beginning of the year when your baby will likely require feeding at night and frequent nappy changes. It's also a great solution for parents who find it difficult to bend down to pick up their infant.
The majority of bedside cots can be attached to the main mattress, and include a breathable mattress for your baby. You can also add bedding, like sheets that are fitted and soft to ensure your baby is safe and comfortable at night. A soft, breathable cover can help keep moisture away from the mattress and reduce the risk of SIDS and allergies.
Cots For Tots of a bedside crib may differ, but it's generally less expensive than the cost of a full-size crib. These cribs can also be an ideal gift for newly-wed parents. The Kinderkraft CoZee is an example. It's an excellent value. It can be used as a bedside crib, a standalone bed, and travel cot, and it is equipped with a comfortable mattress and a stand. A fitted sheet is available for extra comfort and to prevent stains.
SnuzPod is a well-known brand, has a range of colors and fabrics that can be matched to the nursery or bedroom of your baby. They also have a padded base that can provide comfort and support for your baby. A lot of cribs can be adjusted to the level of your mattress and some also have a slight angle of reflux to aid your child in sleeping better.
You might be tempted to buy a second-hand bedside crib however, it is essential to purchase a new mattress. Mattresses that are used or old can increase the risk of SIDS in your baby, and may not be as supportive. It is essential to ensure that the mattress is properly fitted Certain cribs were created to be able to only fit specific brands.
Another option is to get a cot that will be suitable for your baby when they're older. These can be a bit more expensive however they're an excellent investment for your child's safety as well as health. They're also a great choice for those who plan on having more than one baby.