Bedside Cots - The Safe Alternative to Co-Sleeping
A bedside crib is an attachment that is secured to the side of a bed. This allows for safe cosleeping. It lets you be able to see and reach your baby for night feeds without disrupting them. It is also ideal for those who suffer from reflux.
NHS guidelines recommend that your newborn sleeps in their own separate cot, crib or Moses basket for the first six months. A bedside crib could be an affordable and practical alternative to a full-size cot.
Safety
Cots provide an ensconced and safe place for babies to sleep. They are built with high sides to keep babies from falling. The solid head and footboards are shaped to stop babies from becoming entangled. Additionally, the cot should be free from soft toys, cot bumpers and wedges that can be an choking hazard.
The Lullaby Trust recommends that a baby should sleep in the same room with their parents for the first six months of life but not in their bed due to the possibility of the danger of suffocation. A bedside crib can be a great solution for parents who are struggling to resist the temptation of sharing their bed with a sleeping child. These cribs are attached to the headboard or side of the bed of the parent to let you reach your child without needing to get out of bed. They also meet all safety standards.
If you're looking for a cot with the ability to slide down to sleep, you should look for the SnuzPod4. This crib has dual-view mesh windows and the ability to zip down the wall, which allows it to be utilized on its own for a good night's sleep. It also complies with the latest standard for safety in cots and has a a rocking feature that soothes infants to sleep.
When choosing a cot, ensure that it has been thoroughly cleaned and is of a suitable size for your child. It should be at a minimum of 50cm deep to stop your baby from escaping as they grow. Remove stickers and transfers that could be removed from the cot's interior and create a risk of choking.
The cot shouldn't be placed too close to a radiator or a sunny window, as babies are more at risk of SIDS due to overheating. It must also be free of blind cords, as babies are reported to be caught and strangled in these cords. Duvets, pillows, and other beddings can choke babies, so the cot should be free of these.
It's recommended to go through a safety guide for cots before purchasing your baby one. The NHS and the Lullaby Trust have lots of useful information and tips for safe baby sleep. You can also take part in an NCT New Baby Course to know more about safe sleep.
Design
Bedside cribs are a great way to safely co-sleep with your infant, and they are available in a variety of designs. Some are bassinet-style, which is attached to your bed so that you can effortlessly lift your child up to feed them at night or put them back to sleep without getting out of your bed. Some are portable, such as the Slumber 3-in-1, which is a convertible travel cot, a cosleeper and playpen that can be used at home or when you are on the move.
It is vital to remember that, just like with all sleeping arrangements for your baby, the Lullaby Trust recommends ensuring that your baby is sleeping on their back to help reduce the chance of SIDS. When selecting a crib mattress make sure it is firm and flat, and that it fits perfectly within the crib without gaps. It is also recommended to use a mattress cover that is breathable to shield the mattress from accidents and spills.
Celeb moms like Stacey Solomon and Binky Felstead are huge fans of bedside cribs. They are cots with a bassinet design which attach to the sides of your bed. These cribs have an adjustable or lowered side, allowing you to reach your baby to soothe them or feed them during the night. They are also ideal for parents recovering from c-sections.
Portability
A crib that is placed near your bed allows you to keep your baby close to you at all times, particularly during the first few months of life, when nighttime feedings and diaper changes are frequent. It lets you attend to your baby's needs without having to get away from your bed, and will help your child develop an intimate relationship with you. It also helps ensure that you get a good night's sleep.
Most bedside cots are able to be moved around the room. They are perfect for small spaces and can be used as a standalone crib or attached to the bed's side. Some are compact enough to fit into your suitcase when traveling with your child.
Some models have an element that can be collapsed, making it easier to lift your child to to feed them at night or to soothe him back to sleep. This can be useful for mothers who breastfeed, and can reduce the chance of suffocation. The majority of cribs for bedside use are suitable for infants from six months old. However, certain cribs can be used for older children.
The Tutti Bambini CoZee bedside crib is a fantastic option for parents who are new as it's versatile, safe and comes with a bag for travel. It comes with a stay-in-place connector system that attaches to your bed and six height settings that can be adjusted to fit your requirements. It also features a drop-side for easy access and an incline option, which is ideal for infants with reflux or coughs.
It was easy to assemble and it could be folded in a matter of seconds. bedside crib co sleeper made it an excellent option for travel. It was also durable and they appreciated that it didn't have any additional features, like lullabies or rocking.
Chicco Next2me Magic was another bedside cot we picked that parents loved. Its unique design allows you to put your baby close to you. This is great for strengthening the bond between you and your child. It comes with a storage compartment that can be used to store your baby's clothes, wipes and nappies so that you won't have any worries about leaving them behind. However, our parent testers did say that it was a bit bulky when it was packed away and that they would struggle with it when they went up and down the steps and down the stairs, which is something to be aware of when you live in a house with many stairs.
Cost
Bedside cribs are the most secure alternative to co-sleeping. They can help your baby gain independence by separating their sleep environment from yours. This is especially beneficial in the early months in which your baby will require frequent nappy or night changes. It's also a great solution for parents who find it difficult to bend over to pick up their infant.
The majority of cots for bedside use can be attached to the main mattress, and come with a comfortable mattress for your baby. You can add additional bedding, such as a soft fitted bed sheet to ensure your baby is safe and comfortable at night. A comfortable, breathable cover will help to keep moisture away from the mattress which will reduce the chance of suffering from SIDS and allergic.
The cost of a bedside crib can vary, but most are less expensive than a full-size cot. These cribs can also be an ideal gift for newly-wed parents. The Kinderkraft CoZee for instance, is an excellent value. It can be used for an in-bed crib or a standalone bed. It also comes with a breathable bed and an adjustable stand. A fitted sheet is available for added comfort and to prevent stains.
SnuzPod, a reputable brand, has a range of colors and fabrics that will complement your baby's bedroom or nursery. The base is cushioned to protect and provide support to your baby. Many cribs can be raised or lowered to suit the height of your bed Some even have a slight incline for reflux to aid your baby in sleeping better.
It's tempting to purchase a used crib for your bed. However, it is crucial to buy an entirely new mattress. Old or second-hand mattresses can increase your baby's risk of SIDS, and they may not be as dependable. It is important to ensure that the mattress is properly fitted Some cribs were made to fit only certain brands.
Another option is to purchase an cot bed that is suitable for your baby when they're older. They may be more expensive, but they're a good investment for your child's safety as well as health. They're also a great choice when you're planning to have more than one baby.