bedside crib or cot cots4tots.co.uk for babies (or next-to-me crib) is a bassinet-style crib that is attached to the side of your bed and allows you to reach out and soothe your baby without needing to get out of bed. Some models come with an incline feature to ease reflux.

You should only put your baby to sleep in a crib or bassinet if the mattress is flat and firm. This will lower the risk of him suffocating.

Cot


A bedside cot, sometimes known as a co-sleeper or bassinet, is a great way for your baby to rest close to you in the early months. They're made to fit beside your bed, which means you can easily pull your baby out towards you for night-time feeding or soothing them back to sleep. They're also great for mothers recovering from a C-section.

There are many models to choose from, but the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue stands out. It is designed as a play yard and has four sides, two of which are long and can be lowered away (secured with Velcro) to give you the ability to easily access your baby for those middle-of-the-night feeds.

Another alternative is the Baby Hug 4 In 1 Air, which also has a drop-down side and can be turned into recliner. This is a great option for infants to toddlers and allows you to alter the position your baby sleeps in as they grow.

Red Nose recommends that your baby sleep in their own cot between birth and six months. This is because the risk of SIDS is significantly higher when babies share beds, especially with adults, and it's unsafe to allow an infant to sleep in a bassinet which doesn't meet the mandatory Australian safety standards.

Cots are usually safer than bassinets, as they are fixed in height that guarantees there's no gap between the baby's mattress and the adult bed. Cots are usually larger and can be converted to full-size or toddler beds as your baby grows. This can save you money.

When looking for a new baby bedside cot it is important to think about your budget and the size of your nursery or bedroom when you select a model. Be aware that cot beds are likely to be more expensive than bassinets however they are a great investment since they last for a long time and can be used as your child transitions from infanthood to childhood and beyond.

You'll also require a mattress for the cot or crib. It's essential that the mattress is flat, firm and airy to allow your baby to get a good night's sleep and decrease the risk of developing pressure sores or breathing problems. Be wary of second-hand mattresses because they could increase the risk of your child developing SIDS, and make sure you choose one that has been endorsed by the CPSC and adheres to the most recent guidelines. Be careful not to overstuff the crib, or use duvets or bumpers, pillows, or baby positioners. They could create the risk of suffocation. A comfortable, firm mattress for your baby should be able to support the spine. On the internet, you can find various baby mattresses, from budget-friendly options to luxury brands. If you're not sure to try them out, visit a store.