Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib (also known as a bassinet or side sleeper) connects to the parent's bed to ensure safe co-sleeping. It lets you easily reach your baby's bed for night feeds and comforting, without disrupting your sleep.
It is important to ensure that the crib is anchored securely and that it's regularly inspected for any gaps that could pose as an suffocation risk. Some cribs are also convertible and have conversion kits to turn them into standalone baby cots as your baby grows.
Safety
Bedside cot beds are similar to bassinets for babies however, they attach to the mattress you already have instead of resting on the ground. Parents who want their baby near them for feeding, comforting and for nighttime diaper changes, appreciate these cot beds. They're also an essential part of safe cosleeping (also called rooming-in) and can reduce the risk of SIDS.
If you decide to go with a sliding bed or a four-in-one bedside sleeper, you'll require a mattress that fits the cot bed snugly. It should not sag or bulge. It should not slide. It should also meet safety standards, such as those of the Lullaby Trust. If you're buying a second-hand crib mattress, ensure that it's free of cracks or tears and doesn't have loose threads that your baby could become entangled in.
A crib that is placed near the bed allows mothers to respond quickly to infants' needs, whether it is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. This allows them to keep their milk supply. They can also feed babies without having to get up or get out of their bed. bedside co sleeper cot helps promote healthy sleep habits for both parents and babies.
The majority of cots with bedside mesh are attached to the sides to prevent babies from getting trapped or strangled. It is important to check the mesh for tears or loose threads that could entangle or catch baby's clothing, and to make sure there are no other risks like protruding handles and bars that could encourage your baby to get out of the cot bed. Also, look out for parts made of plastic that could be hot to the touch and avoid any sharp edges or splinters.
Convenience
Keep your baby close to you so that you can respond to their needs at any time during the night without having to leave your bed. This proximity will make it easier to feed them, change them and comfort them when they awake, particularly in the early stages of parenting, which can lead to better sleep for you both. It is beneficial in establishing a breastfeeding bond.
This kind of infant sleep solution is also known as a bedside bassinet or sidecar. It's a safe method of co-sleeping which reduces the chance of suffering from sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It allows babies to sleep with their parents, which helps mums establish a breastfeeding relationship and sleep better in the first few months after birth.
Most models have an adjustable or drop-down side that lets you lift the baby from the crib without having to get out of your bed, which makes it easy to attend to the needs of your baby during the night. Some models have the option of manual rocking, which is particularly useful for babies suffering from reflux. A majority of these cribs are smaller than moses' cots or a standard basket, which makes them less bulky and take up less room.
Some beds come with a storage space underneath, which is great to store nappies and blankets. This is a great place to store baby accessories, and other things. It's possible to find some that can be converted, meaning they can change from a side-sleeper, to a full-sized crib, or toddler bed as your child gets older.
Home tester and MFM mom Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a great option for your baby," saying it's not too bulky or large that means it won't take up too much space in the bedroom. She also appreciated the fact that it comes with two different sleeping heights so you can adjust it based on your baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots are cots that resemble bassinets which attach to your bed and allow you to lower one side of the crib to your reach for night-time feeding or for soothing. These cots are also ideal for mothers who are recovering from a c section, as they don't require you to get up to reach your child. 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 specific bed frame. Some models also come with a detachable fourth wall that can be dropped down when not in use, to ensure your baby's safety and away from danger.
Budget
If you're looking to buy a bedside crib, you need to think about the amount of money you can afford. They're generally more expensive than a cot or moses basket however, you can find them to fit the majority of budgets through online shopping. You'll need a crib mattress that's safe for babies, as well as an airy and soft set of bedding. You can buy them online, with add-ons like blankets, a teether or a cuddly toy, as a complete set.
Consider a 4-in-1 or sliding crib as an alternative to the bedside cot. They're similar to a bedside cot bed however they can be put in place next to your bed without gaps. They can also be converted into a regular mattress once your child is old enough to use them. These are also great for those with limited space. They have features such as a tilt or drop-down sides 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 child to a moses-shell or cot after this time.