Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an attachment that attaches securely to the side of a bed. This allows for secure cosleeping. It allows you to view and reach your baby for night feeds without disrupting them. It is also great for those suffering from reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your baby sleeps in their own separate cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib is a practical and affordable alternative to a large crib.
Safety
Cots provide a safe and secure space for babies to sleep. They are surrounded by high sides that prevent babies from falling out. The solid footboards and headboards have shapes cut into them to prevent babies from becoming entangled. Soft toys, cot bumpers and wedges could pose dangers to children's health by choking.
The Lullaby Trust advises that babies should not be sleeping in their parents' bed for the first six month of their lives due to the danger of being suffocated. Many parents find it hard to resist the urge to share their bed with a sleeping baby, so a bedside crib is a great alternative for safe and peaceful co-sleeping. These cribs can be attached to the headboard or side of a parent’s bed so that you can reach your child without having to get out of bed. They also meet all safety standards.
If you're looking to buy a cot with an option to drop down for the night, consider the SnuzPod4. This crib comes with a two-view mesh windows and an easy-to-clean wall, allowing it to be used as a standalone unit to ensure a peaceful sleep. It also complies with the latest safety standards for cots and comes with a a rocking feature that soothes infants to sleep.
When you are choosing a cot make sure it's been thoroughly cleaned and is of the right size for your child. Discover More must be at least 50cm deep, to avoid your child from escaping as they grow. Also, be sure to remove stickers and transfers from the interior of the cot, as these can peel off and pose an choking risk.
The cot shouldn't sit too close to a radiator or a sunny window, as babies are at greater risk of SIDS due to overheating. Blind cords must be removed since babies can be caught in them. Duvets, pillows, and other beddings can choke babies, which is why the cot should be free of these.
It's also a good idea to read a cot safety guide before you buy your baby a. The NHS and the Lullaby Trust have lots of useful information and advice about safe sleep for babies. You can also participate in an NCT New Baby course to learn more about sleeping safely.
Design
Bedside cribs allow you to sleep with your baby in a safe and secure way. They are available in various styles. Some are bassinet-style, and attaches to your bed so you can easily lift your baby up to night feed or soothe them to sleep without having to get out of bed. Some are portable, like the Slumber 3-in-1, a convertible travel cot, cosleeper, and playpen that can be used at home or when you are on the move.
It is crucial to keep in mind that, like all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your child sleeps on their backs to reduce the risk of SIDS. When choosing a crib mattress, ensure that it is firm and flat, and that it fits snugly in the crib without gaps. Also, you should consider putting on a waterproof cover to shield your mattress from spills or accidents.
Celeb mums such as Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead love bedside cribs, which are cots with a bassinet design that attach to the sides of your bed. They have a drop-down or removable side that lets you be close to your baby for nighttime feeding or soothing. They are particularly useful for parents recovering from c-sections.
Portability
A bedside crib allows you to keep your child close to you at all times, particularly in the first few months of life when night feedings and diaper changes are common. It allows you to tend to your baby's needs without having to get away from your bed, and helps your little one develop a strong bond with you. It can also help ensure that you get a good night's sleep.
Most bedside cots are able to be moved around the room. They are ideal for small spaces and can be used as a standalone crib or attached to the bed's side. Some are small enough to fit in your suitcase when you travel with your child.
Some models are equipped with a collapsible side, which makes it easy to carry your baby towards you during night feeding or to soothe them to sleep. This can be helpful for mothers who breastfeed and can help reduce the risk of suffocation or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Most cribs that are bedside can be used for babies as young as 6 months. However, some cribs can be used by older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is an excellent choice for new parents because it's safe, versatile and comes with a travel bag. It comes with a stay-in place connection system to attach to your bed and comes with six height options to suit your needs. It also has a drop-side to allow easier access, as well as an incline setting for babies with coughs or reflux.
Our testers were impressed that it was quick and easy to assemble, and that it folds away in just a few seconds and was a great choice for travelling. It was also sturdy and they were pleased that it didn't have any extra features like lullabies or rocking.
Chicco Next2me Magic was another bedside cot we picked that parents loved. Its unique design enables you to keep your child close to you and is ideal for creating a stronger bond between you. It also has a convenient storage space, which can be used for nappies, baby wipes and clothes and you don't have to worry about leaving them alone. However, our parent testers did say that it was a bit bulky when it was packed away and that they would struggle to carry it up and down the steps and down the stairs, which is something to think about when you reside in a home with lots of stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are the safest alternative to co-sleeping. They can help your baby to gain independence by separating their bedroom from yours. This is especially beneficial in the beginning of the year when your baby is likely to need night feeds and frequent changing of nappy. It is also a great option for parents who are unable to bend over to take their newborn baby in the arms.
Most bedside cots are easily affixed to your mattress and come with a breathable baby mattress. You can add extra bedding, such as a soft fitted bed sheet to ensure your baby is snug and secure at night. A soft, breathable mattress cover will keep the moisture off of the mattress, reducing your baby's chances of suffering from SIDS or allergies.
The cost of a bedside crib can vary, but most are smaller than a standard cot. These cribs can also be ideal gifts for new parents. The CoZee from Kinderkraft is a perfect example, offering great value for price. It can be used as a bedside crib, standalone bed, or a travel cot. It comes with a breathable mattress and a stand. A fitted sheet can be added to provide extra comfort and stop stains from forming.
SnuzPod, a trusted brand, has a wide range of colors and fabrics that will complement the nursery or bedroom of your baby. They also have a padded base to provide cushioning and support for your baby. Many of their cribs can be adjusted to suit the bed's height, and some even have a gentle incline of reflux to help your baby sleep better.
You might be tempted to purchase a second-hand crib but it's essential to purchase a new mattress. Second-hand mattresses or ones that are used may increase the risk of your child developing SIDS, and may not be as supportive. It is also essential to ensure that the mattress is properly fitted Certain cribs are designed to fit certain brands of mattresses only.
Another option is to get a cot that is suitable for your baby when they're older. They're more expensive, but are a great investment in the safety and health of your child. They're also a great choice if you plan to have more than one child.