The 10 Worst Bedside Cots Failures Of All Time Could Have Been Avoided
Bedside Cots
Bedside cribs are also known as a bassinet, or side sleeper. It attaches to the parent's mattress and allows the baby to sleep nearby. They're a safe form of co-sleeping, and are ideal for mums recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina said that the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib was very easy to assemble. It was one of the most efficient during the test. It's height adjustable, and can be tilted into an inclined position for babies with reflux and is a good travel cot option.
They're safe
Bedside cots, also known as co-sleepers as they're often referred to are specially designed baby sleeping solutions that allow infants to sleep beside their parents without risk of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but they are connected to the sides of a parent's bed. One side is open, allowing parents can easily access their infant who is sleeping. These are ideal for families who wish to sleep together but are concerned about the risks of bed sharing.
Many people worry about the safety and effectiveness of a bassinet or bedside mattress. However, CHOICE found that these products, when used properly are safe and result in fewer injuries and accidents. They're also a great option for parents who are suffering from the exhaustion that can result from nighttime feedings and early morning nappy changes. You can watch the baby and soothe them when needed.
If you are looking for a bedside cot that's safe, choose one with a mattress that is sturdy and breathable. A mattress that is breathable can aid in regulating your baby's body temperature and help prevent overheating. A fitted sheet that fits your mattress is also recommended and so is a nappy-changing kit with a waterproof cover. All these products can be purchased on the internet or in stores that specialize in baby products. It is not recommended to make use of second-hand or hand-me-down products. They may have been recalls, damaged or do not meet the safety standards.
A high-quality bedside crib will be easy to put together and can be removed to store. Some models also come with incline positions that can be adjusted, which can make it easier for newborns to sleep in a higher position, or parents suffering from reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them up and take them with you on your excursion.
They're easy to clean
Bedside cots are easy to clean, especially with the right products. Take away any bedding, such as sheets, blankets, or cuddly toy and wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Then vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special focus on the corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are beneficial to reduce the build-up of dust mites and other bacteria.
Next, wipe down the cot using a soft cloth soaked in baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Regularly dampen a new cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surface clean. If bedside crib to cot is stained, use a gentle scrub brush to clean them and a bit of baking soda to eliminate any the lingering odours. Test the cleaning solution on a small part of the mattress before applying it.
It is easier to clean and sanitize the cot when it is disassembled. You can apply a mild detergent as well as a warm water to wash the mattress and the protector.
If the cot is made from wood, you can sanitise it with a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without harming the wood or leaving harmful residues. Take a small sample of wood to ensure it will not be damaged. Apply the solution with a soft, clean cloth and allow it to dry before reassembling.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet is a specifically designed infant sleeping solution that allows your child to sleep beside your bed. They are compact and portable, making them easy to move from room to room as required. They're also a great option for those with limited space at home or if you plan to travel with your infant.
In contrast to regular cribs for babies cribs for bedside use, they are designed to attach to the side of your bed, so you can easily lift your infant into and out for nighttime feedings and soothing. These cribs are constructed with a removable or drop-down side for easy lifting. They also come with adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs even convert into full cot beds as your child grows providing you with extra durability and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the portability and light weight of these sleeping solutions, making them ideal for traveling. One mom says, "It is small and compact so it can easily be moved throughout the house and fit in a bag." "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs easily."
The Shnuggle Air along with Crib is another lightweight option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu agrees that it's simple to move around and is solid. She does add that it's a bit larger than other cradles that are used for bedside use and is not recommended for infants that might roll or flip.
They're comfortable
The best cribs for bedside use allow babies to sleep close to their parents, but in a separate sleeping area. They're typically smaller than a Moses Basket or standard cot and can be folded away and stored when not being used. It's also more convenient to reach for feeds, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them perfect for new mums who are recovering from a c section and won't have to bend as low to care for their infant during the middle of the night.
The crib is also a great choice for parents who are worried about the risks that come with co-sleeping. The crib is closer to the bed of the parent and, consequently, has a lower chance of SIDS than sleeping in with a normal cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping, also known as "rooming in" is essential for the development of a baby.
You can also purchase a variety of bedsides, some of which include an inflatable mattress that you can take with you on trips and others that can be converted into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides have inclined positions that are ideal for babies who suffer from reflux. There are also crib that can be attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will prevent the crib from being moved by accident when the baby is sleeping.
If you're looking for a bedside sleeper, it's worth choosing one with a strong and breathable mattress for your baby to ensure your baby's safety. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft, durable cover. This will ensure that your baby is comfortable and warm when they sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to slide and collapse, which is great for those morning feedings when you're tired. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in a travel bag which is an added benefit for busy parents traveling.