Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a bassinet or side sleeper) attaches to the parent's bed to allow safe co-sleeping. It is easy to reach your child at night for feedings and comforting without disrupting your sleep.
It is important to ensure that the crib is anchored securely and that it's regularly checked for any gaps that could create an suffocation risk. Some cribs can also be converted, with conversion kits to convert them into standalone cribs as your baby grows.
Safety
A bedside cot bed is similar to a baby bassinet, but it attaches to your mattress rather than sitting on the floor. Parents who want their newborn close to them for feeding, comforting, and nighttime diaper changes love these crib beds. They're also an essential element of a safe cosleeping or rooming in.
You'll need to choose a mattress for your cot that fits comfortably into the bed of your cot, whether you choose an adjustable bed or a sliding one. Be sure that it doesn't slump or bulge, and that it meets safety standards such as the Lullaby trust's guidelines. Verify that the mattress is clean, free of cracks and tears and does not have loose threads.
A crib next to the bed allows mothers to respond quickly to their newborns needs, whether it is nursing or bottle feeding. This allows them to maintain their milk supply. They can also feed babies without getting up or get out of bed. This helps promote healthy sleep habits for parents and their babies.
The majority of bedside cots have mesh connected to the sides to keep children from becoming trapped or strangled. It is essential to check the mesh for any tears or loose threads that could entangle or catch clothing of a baby and also to ensure there aren't any other hazards such as protruding handles or bars, which could encourage your baby to climb out of the cot. Check for any plastic that is hot to the touch, and beware of any sharp edges.
Convenience
A bedside cot allows you to keep your baby close by so you can respond to their needs throughout the night, without having to get from your bed. The closeness of the cot will make it easier to feed them or change them and soothe them when they wake up especially in the initial stages of parenthood, promoting better sleep for you both. It is beneficial in establishing a breastfeeding connection.
This type of infant sleeping solution is also known as a sidecar sleeper or bedside bassinet, and it's a method of safe co-sleeping which reduces the risks associated with sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It allows babies to sleep with their parents and is a great way for mums to establish the bond of breastfeeding and also help them sleep better in those first months after the birth.
Many models come with a slide-down or removable side that lets you lift the baby from the crib without having to get out of your bed, making it easy to tend to the needs of your baby during the night. Some models also have the option of manual rocking which is particularly beneficial for resettling babies who have reflux. They are usually smaller than a moses basket or standard cot, and therefore are smaller and take up less space.
bedside baby bed have an area for storage underneath. This is a great place to store blankets and nappy. It's also a good place to store toys and other baby items. There are some that can be converted, meaning they can transition from a side-sleeper into an adult-sized crib or toddler bed as your child gets older.
Jasmine Jasmine, an MFM mum and home tester Jasmine, a home tester and MFM mum, describes the MoMi Smart Bed as "a fantastic choice for your baby" she says it is not too large or heavy. This means that it won't take up a lot of space in your bedroom. She also appreciated the fact that it can be adjusted to the height of the bed depending on the baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots are bassinet-style cots which attach to your bed and let you lower one side of the crib into your reach for nighttime feeding or for soothing. These cots are also ideal for mums recovering from a csection since they don't need you to climb up to reach your child. If you're considering this type of cot bed, search for models that can be securely attached to the parent's bed and are compatible with your particular bed frame. Some models also come with a detachable 4th wall that can be dropped down when not in use, to ensure your baby is safe and out of harm's way.
Budget
If you're considering buying a bedside crib, it's important to consider the budget you have. They're generally more expensive than a cot or a moses basket, but you can find them to suit most budgets with some good online shopping. You'll require an infant crib mattress that is safe for infants as well as a soft and breathable set of bedding. These are available online with optional add-ons like a baby teether or blanket.
Consider a 4-in-1 or sliding crib as an alternative to the bedside cot. These are like a cot however, you can slide them into the space beside your bed without gaps in between and they can also be converted into a regular bed when your child is old enough to use them. They are also great for those who have a small space. They come with features such as a tilt or drop down side to make it easier to access your baby. The only downside is that they only last up to six months. You'll need to put your baby into an cot or moses-shell after this period.