Bedside Cot Bed

A bedside crib, also referred to as a bassinet or side sleeper, is attached to a parent's bed and allows secure cosleeping. You can easily reach your child for night feedings and comforting without disrupting your sleep.

It is essential that the crib is secured and regularly inspected for any gaps that could cause a suffocation risk. Some cribs can be converted into cots for your growing baby by using conversion kits.

Safety

Bedside cot beds are similar to bassinets for babies however, they attach to your existing mattress instead of sitting on the ground. They're popular with parents who want their baby to be close enough for feeding, comforting and at nighttime diaper changes. They're also an essential part of safe cosleeping (also called rooming-in) and can reduce the risk of SIDS.

Whether you choose a sliding bed or a four-in-one bedside sleeper, you'll need an appropriate cot mattress that fits into the cot bed snugly. Ensure that it doesn't sag or bulge, and that it complies with safety standards, including the Lullaby Trust's guidelines. If you're purchasing a second-hand cot mattress, check that it's free of tears or cracks and doesn't have loose threads that your child could become entangled in.

A crib placed next to the bed allows mothers to react quickly to their infants' needs, whether it is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. This allows them to keep their milk supply. It also allows them to feed their babies without having to get up or out of their bed. This encourages healthy sleep habits for both parents and infants.

Most bedside cot beds are equipped with mesh that is securely attached to the sides of the cot to reduce the chance of a baby being trapped or entangled in the gaps. Check the mesh regularly to look for bedside cot bed tears or loose threads which could catch or entangle the baby's clothes. Also, make sure there aren't any other hazards, such as the protruding handles or bars, which may encourage your infant to climb out of the bed. Check for 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 that you can attend to their needs throughout the night, without having to move out of your own bed. This closeness makes it easier to feed, change and comfort your baby once they awake. It is beneficial in establishing a breastfeeding connection.

This kind of infant sleep solution is also known as a sidecar sleeper or bedside bassinet, and it's a form of safe co-sleeping that lowers the risks associated with sudden death syndrome (SIDS). It lets newborns sleep close to their parents and is a great way for mums to establish the bond of breastfeeding and also help them to get more sleep in the first few months after the birth.

The majority of cribs have a removable or drop-down side that allows you to take the baby out of the crib without leaving your bed. This helps you attend to their needs throughout the night. Some models come with the option of manual rocking bedside crib which is especially beneficial for babies with reflux. Many of these types of cribs are smaller than moses or a standard cot basket, which makes them lighter and take up less room.

Some beds come with a storage space underneath, which is great for storing nappies and blankets. This is a great space to store baby accessories and other items. Some are convertible, which means that they can be changed from a side-sleeper, to the size of a full-sized or toddler bed when your child gets older.

Jasmine, a MFM mom and home tester The MoMi Smart Bed as "a fantastic choice for your little one" and says that it's not overly large or heavy. This means it won't take up much space in your bedroom. She also loved the fact that it comes with two different sleeping heights, so you can adjust it based on your baby's age.

Styles

Bedside cots, which are bassinets that are stylish, can be attached to your bed. They allow you to lower the side of your crib so that it's within your reach at night to feed or relaxing. These cots are also great for mothers recovering from a csection, as they don't require you to get up to reach your child. If you're considering this type of cot bed, look for models that securely fasten to the bed of the parent and are compatible with your specific bed frame. Some models come with an optional 4th wall that can be lowered when not in use to ensure your child secure.

Budget

If you're planning to purchase a bedside crib, it's essential to think about the budget you have. They're generally more expensive than a cot, or a moses basket however, you can find them to suit all budgets by doing some online shopping. You'll require a crib mattress that's safe for infants and a comfortable and breathable set of bedding. You can purchase these online and add accessories such as a teether, blanket, or cuddly toy to complete the set.

Consider a 4-in-1 bedside crib or sliding crib as an alternative to a bedside travel cot cot. They're similar to a cot however, you can slide them into place beside your own bed without gaps, and they can be transformed into a regular mattress as your baby grows out of them. They are also ideal if you don't have enough space in your home, and they come with features like a drop down side or tilt for easy access to your baby. The only downside is that they usually last only up to 6 months, meaning that you'll need to move your baby into a cot or moses shell at this point.