Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bassinet or a side sleeper, attaches to the bed of a parent and allows for safe cosleeping. It is easy to reach your child at night for feedings and comforting without disrupting your sleep.
It is important to make sure that the crib is secured securely and regularly checked for any gaps that could be a suffocation hazard. Some cribs can be transformed into cots for your baby using conversion kits.
Safety
A bedside crib bed is similar to a baby bassinet however, it is attached to the mattress you already have instead of being placed on the floor. Parents who want to have their infant close to them for feeding, comforting and for nighttime diaper changes, appreciate these cot beds. 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 choose the cot mattress that is a perfect fit for the cot bed, regardless of whether you choose the sliding bed. It should not sag or bulge. It should not be sagging. It should also meet the safety standards, including those of the Lullaby Trust. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib mattress, ensure that it's free of cracks or tears and doesn't have loose threads that your child could become entangled in.
The close proximity of a crib at bedtime allows mothers to quickly respond to their newborns need during the night, such as breastfeeding or bottle feeding and helping them maintain their milk supply. They can also feed their infants without having to wake up or get up, promoting healthy sleep habits in both parents and babies.
The majority of cots with bedside beds are fitted with a mesh that's securely connected to the sides of the cot, reducing the possibility of a child being trapped or entangled in the gaps. Regularly inspect the mesh to look for tears or loose threads which could catch or entangle the baby's clothes. Also, make sure that there are no other dangers such as handles or bars that protrude that could encourage your child to climb out of the bed. Check for any plastic that is hot to the touch, and stay away from any sharp edges.
Convenience
A bedside cot allows you to keep your baby close so that you can attend to their needs throughout the night without the need to get out of your own bed. The closeness of the cot can make it easier for you to feed them or change them, and also comfort them when they wake up especially in the initial stages of parenthood, promoting better sleep for you both. It can also help in establishing a breastfeeding relationship.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also known as a sidecar sleeper or bedside bassinet. It's a type of safe co-sleeping that reduces the risk of suffering from sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets newborns rest close to their parents which is a wonderful way for mums to establish the bond of breastfeeding and also help them get more rest in the first few months after the birth.
Most models come with the option of a drop-down or removable side that lets you take the baby out of the crib without having to leave your bed. This allows you to be more attentive to their needs throughout the night. Some models even have an option for manual rocking, which can be particularly beneficial for resettling babies who are suffering from reflux. They are usually smaller than a moses basket or a standard cot, which means they are smaller and take up less space.
Some beds have a storage space underneath. This is a great space to store nappy and blankets. It's a great spot to store toys, baby accessories and other items. You can find a few that are convertible, meaning they can change from a side-sleeper, to an adult-sized crib or toddler bed as your child gets older.
Home tester and MFM mother Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a fantastic option to have for your little one," saying it's not too large or bulky that means it won't take up too much space in the bedroom. She also loved the fact that it comes with two different sleeping heights so you can alter it according to your baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots, also known as bassinets in style, attach to your bed. They let you lower the crib's side so that it is close enough to you during the night for feeding or soothing. They're also a blessing for mothers who've had a c-section, as you don't have to get up to reach your baby, and they can speed up recovery time. If you're thinking of this kind of cot bed, search for ones that are securely attached to the bed of the parent and are compatible with your particular bed frame. Some models also have an adjustable 4th wall that can be lowered down when not in use to ensure your baby's safety and away from danger.
Budget
If you're planning to purchase a bedside crib, it's essential to think about the budget you have.
bedside baby bed are more expensive than a moses' basket or cot, but they can be purchased at a cost that is suitable for all budgets. You'll also need a safe mattress for the crib, and a soft and comfortable bedding set. These can be purchased online with optional add-ons such as a blanket or a teether.
If you're looking for an alternative to a bedside cot you may want to consider a sliding crib or a four-in-one bedside sleeper. They're similar to a bedside cot bed but they can be slid into place next to your bed without gaps between them. They can also be transformed into a regular mattress when your child gets out of them. They are also ideal for those who have a small space. They have features like a tilt or drop down side to allow you to easily access your baby. The only downside is that they're only able to last up to six months. You'll have to move your baby into a moses-shell or cot after this period.