Baby Bedside Cot

A baby bedside crib (or next-to me crib) is a bassinet style cot that attaches to the side of your mattress. This lets you reach your baby and comfort your child without getting up from your bed. Some models also have an incline function that can help relieve reflux.

Remember, you should only sleep with your child in a crib, bassinet or bedside crib if the mattress is flat and firm to decrease the chance of inhaling.

Cot

A bedside cot, sometimes called a co-sleeper or bassinet, is a great option for your baby to rest close to you for the first few months. The cots are designed to fit next to your bed so that you can easily carry your baby to you to feed them at night or soothe them back to sleep. These are also ideal for mums who have just had a c-section.

There are a variety of different models available, but one that stands out is the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue. The play yard is compact and has four sides. Two of them are long and may be lifted out of the way with Velcro so that you can easily reach your baby's feeds.

Another alternative is the Baby Hug 4 In 1 Air, which also has an adjustable side that can be converted into a recliner. This is a fantastic option for infants and toddlers and offers the flexibility to adjust your baby's sleep position as they grow.

It's important to note that, while bassinets can be utilized as an alternative to an existing cot but Red Nose strongly suggests that you sleep your infant in their own cot from the time of birth until six months. This is because SIDS risk is significantly higher when babies share beds, particularly with adults, and because it's unsafe to allow an infant to sleep in a bassinet which doesn't meet the mandatory Australian safety standards.

Cots are generally safer than bassinets because they have a fixed height that guarantees there's no gap between your baby's mattress and the adult bed. They're also generally larger, meaning they can be converted into toddler and full-size beds as your child grows - which can save you money in the long run.

When shopping for a crib for your baby it is essential to consider your budget and the size of your bedroom or nursery when choosing a cot. Keep in mind that cot beds tend to be more expensive than bassinets, but can be a good investment as they last for a long time and can be used as your child moves from infancy into childhood and beyond.

It's also worth remembering that you'll require a mattress for your baby's bedside crib or cot. The mattress should be flat, firm and breathable for your baby to get a good sleep and reduce the chance of developing breathing problems or pressure sores. Be Cots For Tots Links to an external site. of second-hand mattresses since they can increase your child's risk of SIDS. Be sure you select one that has been endorsed by the CPSC and adheres to the most current guidelines. Also, be cautious not to over-stuff your crib or use pillows, duvets, bumpers or baby positioners as they could be a suffocation hazard. A mattress that is breathable for babies must be sufficient in firmness to be able to support your baby's back. On the internet, you can find many baby mattresses, ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium brands. If you're unsure you can test them in a store.