The Most Common Bedside Cot Bed Mistake Every Beginner Makes

Bedside Cot Bed

A best bedside cot crib (also known as a side sleeper or bassinet) attaches to the parent's bed to allow secure co-sleeping. It lets you easily reach your baby for feeding and comforting at night, without disturbing your own sleep.

It's important that the crib is secured and regularly inspected for gaps that could pose an suffocation threat. Some cribs are also convertible with conversion kits that transform them into standalone baby cots as your baby grows.

Safety

A bedside crib bed is similar to a bassinet for babies, but it attaches to your existing mattress rather than sitting on the floor. Parents who want to have their newborn within reach of them for feeding, comforting and nighttime diaper changes love these cot beds. They're also a crucial part of safe cosleeping (also called rooming-in) and can reduce the risk of SIDS.

You'll need to select a mattress for your travel cot bedside crib that fits snugly into the cot bed, whether you opt for a sliding bed. Ensure that it doesn't sag or bulge and that it is in compliance with safety standards as well as the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. If you're buying a second-hand crib mattress, make sure it's clean and free from cracks or tears and doesn't have loose threads that your baby could entangle themselves in.

The close proximity of a bedside crib allows mothers to respond to their newborns' needs during the night, including breastfeeding or bottle feeding and helping them to maintain their milk supply. They can also feed their infants without having to fully wake up or leave their bed, promoting healthy sleep habits in both parents and babies.

The majority of bedside cots are fitted with a mesh that's securely fixed to the sides of the cot to reduce the chance of a baby getting stuck or strangled in the gaps. It is important to check the mesh for any tears or loose threads that could get caught or catch baby's clothing and ensure there aren't any other dangers like protruding handles or bars, which could encourage your baby to get out of the cot bed. Beware of any plastic that is hot to the touch, and beware of any sharp edges.

Convenience

A bedside cot lets you keep your baby close by so you can respond to their needs throughout the night, without having to get out of your own bed. This closeness makes it easier to feed or change your baby when they wake up. It can also be helpful in establishing a breastfeeding relationship.

This type of infant sleep solution is also known as a sidecar or bedside bassinet. It's a secure form of co-sleeping which reduces the risk of sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It allows babies to sleep with their parents, which helps mums establish a breastfeeding bond and get more sleep in the first few months after birth.

Many models come with a slide-down or removable side that allows you to lift the baby out of the crib without leaving your bed, which makes it easy to attend to the needs of your baby at night. Some models include an option for manual rocking which is especially beneficial for babies with reflux. A majority of these cribs are smaller than moses or a standard cot basket, which makes them less bulky and take up less space.

Some beds have storage space beneath, which is ideal for stashing blankets and nappies. This is a great place to store toys, baby accessories, and other things. Some convertible beds means they can be transformed from a side-sleeper into an adult-sized bed or a toddler bed as your child gets older.

Home tester and MFM mother Jasmine describes the MoMi Smart BED as "a fantastic option to have for your baby," saying it's not too bulky or large and won't take up too much space in your bedroom. She also liked 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 that attach to your bed and let you lower one side of the crib into your reach for nighttime feeding or soothing. They're also a godsend for mums who've had a c-section as you don't need to get up to reach your baby and can help speed up recovery time. 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 safe.

Budget

If you're planning to purchase a bedside crib, it's important to consider the amount of money you can afford. They are more expensive than a moses' basket or cot, however they can be purchased at a cost that is suitable for all budgets. You'll require a crib mattress that is safe for infants, as well as a comfortable and breathable set of bedding. You can buy them online and add accessories such as blankets, a teether or a cuddly toys as a complete set.

If you're looking for a different option to a bedside cot bed you may want to think about a sliding crib or a 4-in-1 bedside cot 6 months plus sleeper. They're similar to a bedside cot but they can be slid into the bed without gaps. They can also be converted into a regular mattress once your child gets out of them. They're also great for when you don't have a lot of space in your home, and they have features like a drop-down side or tilt for easy access to your baby. The only downside is that they're only good for up to six months. You'll need to transfer your child to a moses-shell or cot after this period.