Bedside Cots

Bedside cribs are also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It is attached to the parent's mattress and allows the baby to sleep close to the parent. They're a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mothers recovering from C-sections.

MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be extremely quick and simple to put together (one of the fastest during testing). It is height-adjustable and can be tilted into an inclined position to assist reflux babies.

You're safe

Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are also called, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that allow babies to sleep near their parents without the threat of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but they are attached to the parent's bed. One side is open, so parents can easily reach their infant who is sleeping. These are great for families who wish to co-sleep but are worried about the potential risks of bed sharing.

Many people are worried about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has discovered that when used in a safe manner they are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. These cribs are also a good choice for parents who are struggling with the exhaustion of night feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can monitor the baby and comfort them when needed.

If you're in search of a secure bedside cot, you should select one with an air-tight, durable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will help to regulate your baby's temperature and stop them from overheating. A fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress is also recommended and so is an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. You can purchase these items online or at stores that specialize in baby products. You should never make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They could have been recalled, damaged or not up to safety standards.

A quality bedside crib is easy to assemble and is easily removed when not in use. Some models also come with incline positions which can be adjusted which can make it easier for newborns to sleep in a higher position, or parents suffering from reflux. Some models have a travel bag included so they can be easily packed away and carried with you when you're travelling.

They're easy to clean

The right products make it easy to clean cots for bed. Remove any bedding like blankets, sheets, or cuddly toy and wash them in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. Clean the cot thoroughly, including its mattress. Be large bedside cot about crevices and corners. Mattress protectors are also an excellent idea to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other bacteria.

Next, use a soft cloth dampened with a baby-safe cleaner spray or a natural stain removal spray to clean the cot. Use a clean, fresh cloth regularly to clean soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as possible. If the mattress has stains then use a gentle scrub brush to clean them, and add a little baking soda to eliminate any lingering odours. Always test a small portion of the mattress to ensure that the cleaning product is safe for your child.

If the cot is disassembled, it can be easier to reach all of its surfaces, nooks and crannies for thorough cleaning and sanitizing. You can make use of a mild detergent and warm water solution to clean the mattress and the protector.

If your cot is constructed of wood, you can clean it using a mixture warm water and vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria, without damaging the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the mixture on a small area of the wood to make sure that it doesn't harm it. Apply the solution with a soft clean cloth and allow it to dry before reassembling.

They are easy to move

A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is a specially designed infant sleep solution that allows your child to sleep beside your bed. These cribs are compact and portable, making it easy to move from room to room as required. They're also a great choice for those with limited space in your home or if you plan to travel with your child.

Unlike regular baby beds cribs designed for bedside use are made to attach to the sides of your bed so that you can easily lift your newborn out and back in for night feedings and soothing. They are made with a removable or drop-down side for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs are even converted into full cot beds as your child grows providing you with extra durability and value.

Our mum testers love the lightweight and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for traveling. "It's very compact and small which means it can fit in its own travel bag and be carried around the house easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and downstairs without difficulty."

The Shnuggle Air beside crib is another option for light weight that was shortlisted for 2021's Best Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and feels it's sturdy too. However, she adds that it's not as big as other cribs for bed and shouldn't be used by babies who are likely to roll or flip.

They're comfy

The best bedside cribs let babies sleep next to parents, but in a separate sleeping space. They're generally smaller than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they can often be folded away and put away when not in use. They're also a lot more accessible when it comes to night feeding, changing nappy and relaxing. This makes them ideal for new mums recovering from a c-section as they won't have to bend as much to tend to their little one in the middle of the night.

The crib is also a great option for parents who are concerned about the dangers associated with co-sleeping. The crib is located closer to the bed of the parent and is less likely to suffer from SIDS than co-sleeping with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe co-sleeping is called rooming in and is a crucial part of a baby's early development.

You can also buy various bedsides that include an inflatable mattress that you can take along on your travels and others that convert into a standalone toddler cot or baby cot. Some even have incline positions which are ideal for babies who have reflux. You can also find a crib that can be attached to the parent’s bed, or has locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being accidentally moved when the baby is sleeping.

If you're thinking of buying an infant crib that is next to your bed, make sure it's a comfortable and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the security of your child. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfy and warm when they sleep.


Some bedsides are also simple to slide and collapse, which is great for those morning feedings when you're exhausted. The Joie Roomie Glide, shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category, is an excellent example of a bedside crib that is easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit into its travel bag which is an added benefit for busy parents on the go.