10 Locations Where You Can Find Bedside Cot Bed
Bedside Cot Bed
A bedside crib, also known as a bassinet or a side sleeper, is attached to a parent's bed and allows for safe cosleeping. You can easily reach your child at night for feedings and comforting, without disturbing your sleep.
It's important that the crib is secure and regularly inspected for any gaps that could create an suffocation threat. Some cribs can also be converted with conversion kits that turn them into standalone baby cribs as your baby grows.
Safety
A bedside crib is similar to a baby bassinet however, it is attached to the mattress you already have instead of sitting on the floor. They're popular with parents who want their baby to be close enough for feeding, comforting and even for night-time diaper changes. They're also a crucial part of safe cosleeping (also called rooming-in) and help reduce the risk of SIDS.
If you opt for a sliding bed or 4-in-1 bedside sleeper, you'll need a mattress that fits in the cot bed snugly. It shouldn't sag or bulge, or be sagging. It must also be in compliance with safety standards, such as those of the Lullaby Trust. If you're purchasing a second-hand crib mattress, ensure that it's clean and free of tears or cracks and isn't brimming with threads that your child could get caught in.
The close proximity of a crib at bedtime allows mothers to respond to their infants needs throughout the night, such as breastfeeding or bottle feeding and helping them to maintain their milk supply. They can also feed their infants without having to wake up or leave their bed, promoting healthy sleep habits in both babies and parents.
The majority of bedside cots are equipped with mesh that is securely connected to the sides of the cot to minimize the chance of a baby getting caught or trapped in the gaps. It is essential to check the mesh for tears or loose threads that could entangle or catch a baby's clothing and ensure there aren't any other hazards like protruding handles or bars that could cause your newborn to get out of the cot bed. Look out for any plastic that is hot to the touch, and beware of any sharp edges.
Convenience
Keep your baby close so that you can attend to his or her needs at any time during the night without leaving your bed. This proximity makes it easier to feed, change and comfort your baby when they wake up. It can be helpful in creating a breastfeeding connection.
This type of infant sleeping solution is also referred to as a sidecar bed or bedside bassinet, and it's a method of safe co-sleeping that reduces the risks associated with sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets newborns sleep close to their parents, which is an ideal method for mothers to establish a breastfeeding bond and help them sleep better in the first few months after the birth.
The majority of cribs come with the option of a drop-down or removable side that lets you remove the baby from the crib without having to leave your bed. This makes it easier to attend to their needs at night. Some models also have an option for manual rocking which is particularly beneficial for resettling babies who suffer from reflux. These cribs are often smaller than a moses basket or a standard cot, which means they require less space.
Some beds come with a storage space beneath, which is ideal for stashing blankets and nappies. It's also a useful storage space for toys and other baby accessories. There are some that are convertible, which means they can change from a side-sleeper, to a full-sized crib, or toddler bed as your child grows older.
Home tester and MFM mum Jasmine describes the MoMi SMART BED as "a fantastic option to have for your little one," saying it's not too bulky or large and won't take up too much space in your bedroom. She also appreciated that it can be adjusted to the height of it depending on the baby's age.
Styles
Bedside cots are bassinet-style cots that fix to your bed and let you lower one side of the crib to your reach for nighttime feeding or for soothing. They are also great for mothers who are recovering from a c-section because they don't require you to stand up to reach your child. Look for cot beds that work with the bed frame of your choice and securely attach to the mattress of the parent. Some models have a removable 4th wall which can be lowered when not in use to keep your child secure.
Budget
If you're planning to purchase a bedside crib, it's essential to think about the budget you have available. They are more expensive than a moses' basket or cot, however they are available at a price that suits the majority of budgets. You'll need a crib mattress that is safe for infants, as well as a comfortable and breathable set of bedding. They can be bought online, with optional accessories like a blanket or teether.
If you're looking for an alternative to a bedside cot it is possible to think about a sliding crib or a 4-in-1 bedside sleeper. These are like a cot but you can slide them to the side of your bed without gaps in between and they can also be transformed into a regular mattress when your child is old enough to use them. These are also great for those who have a small space. They have features like tilting or a drop-down sides to facilitate access to your baby. how you can help is that they typically last for just 6 months, meaning that you'll need to move your baby into a cot or moses shell at this time.