Bedside Cots
A bedside crib is also called a bassinet or side sleeper. It attaches to the parent's mattress and allows the baby to sleep in the same room. These are a safe way to co-sleep, and are a great option for mothers who are recovering from c-sections.
MFM tester Georgina discovered the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be very quick and easy to put together (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable and tiltable into an inclined position for reflux babies and is a good option for a travel cot.
You're safe
Bedside cots or co-sleepers, as they are often referred to special infant sleep solutions that allow babies to sleep near their parents without the danger of SIDS. They're similar to Moses baskets or a standard baby cot however, they attach to the side of the parent's bed and feature one side that is open, allowing parents to access their newborn infant. These are great for families who wish to co-sleep but are worried about the potential risks of bed sharing.
Many people are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device however CHOICE has discovered that when used properly, these products are safe and have a low incidence of accidents and injuries. They are also an ideal choice for new parents experiencing exhaustion which can come with night feeds and early morning changing nappy. Bedside cribs let you monitor your baby and, if they wake up during the night or need you to help them, you'll be able to comfort them or change their nappy quickly.
If you're looking for a safe bedside cot, pick one with an air-tight, durable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will help regulate the temperature of your baby's body and help prevent overheating. You should also buy a fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress, as well as a nappy changing kit that includes waterproof covers and a wipeable mat. You can purchase all these items online and at stores that specialize in baby products. It is crucial to remember that you shouldn't make use of secondhand items or hand-me-downs, as these may be recalled or have been damaged and do not meet the necessary safety standards.
A good quality bedside crib will be simple to set up and can be taken apart to store. Some models have adjustable incline positions, which make it easier for babies to sleep in a raised position or for parents suffering from reflux. Some models come with a bag for travel so you can easily pack them and take them with you on your journey.
They're easy to clean
The best products allow you to clean bedside cots. Remove any bedding like blankets, sheets, or cuddly toy and wash them according the manufacturer's instructions. Clean the cot, including its mattress. Pay special attention to crevices and corners. Mattress protectors are an excellent idea to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.
Next, clean the cot using a soft cloth soaked in baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain removal spray. Dampen a fresh cloth regularly to rinse off soapy residue and keep the surface as clean as it can be. If bedside travel crib has stains, use a gentle scrub brush to clean them, and add a little baking soda to improve lingering odours. Test the cleaning solution on a small portion of the mattress before using it.
If the cot is disassembled it can be easier to reach all of its surfaces and nooks and crannies for thorough cleaning and sanitizing. You can make use of a mild detergent and warm water to wash the mattress and its protector.
If your cot is constructed of wood, you can clean it with a mixture of warm vinegar and water. 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. Then, apply the solution with a soft cloth, and allow it to dry before putting it back together.
They are easy to move
A bedside crib is also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your child to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are lightweight, compact and easy to move around. They're also a great choice if you have limited space at home or you plan to travel with your child.
Unlike regular baby beds 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 calming. These cribs are constructed with a drop-down or removable side that allows for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can be converted into full cot beds as your child grows. This gives you more longevity and value.
Our mom testers are enthralled by the light and portable nature of these sleeping solutions, which makes them ideal for travel. One mom says, "It is small and compact, so it can be easily transported around the house and easily fit into its own bag." "My husband is able to carry it up and downstairs easily."
The Shnuggle Air next to the crib is another lightweight option that was shortlisted for 2021's Best Cot Crib, Crib or Moses Basket category at the Mother&Baby awards. Another mom, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees it's easy to transport and believes it's durable too. She also says it's a bit bigger than some bedside cradles and not recommended for babies that might roll or flip.
They're at ease
The best cribs for bedside use allow babies to sleep close to their parents however, they have their own sleeping area. They're generally more compact than a Moses basket or standard cot, and they can be folded and stored away when not in use. It's also easier to reach for feedings, diaper changes and soothing. This makes them ideal for new mothers recovering from a c-section since they won't need to bend down as much to tend to their infant during the night.
They're also a great choice for parents who want to get a good night's sleep and are concerned about the risks of co-sleeping. This is because the crib is located closer to the parent's bed and is less prone to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than sleeping in a regular cot or bassinet. This kind of safe co-sleeping, also known as "rooming in" is important for a baby's development.

You can also purchase various bedsides, some of which include a portable mattress that you can carry along on your travels and others that can be converted into a separate toddler cot or baby cot. Some bedsides come with inclined positions that are ideal for babies suffering from reflux. You can also find a crib that can be attached to the bed of the parent or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.
If you're thinking of buying a crib beside your bed, make sure it has a breathable and durable baby mattress. This will ensure the security of your child. We recommend a mattress made of foam with a soft, durable cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy while they sleep.
Some bedsides are also easy to slide and collapse which is perfect for those morning feedings when you're exhausted. 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 small enough to fit in its travel bag. This is a great feature for busy parents.