Bedside Cots

A bedside crib, also known as a bassinet or side sleeper is a bed that can be attached to the bed of the parent and allows baby to sleep close to the parent. They're a safe way to sleep together and are ideal for mothers who are recovering from c-sections.

MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib very quick and easy to assemble (one of the fastest during testing). It's height-adjustable, can tilt to an inclined position for babies who have reflux and is a good option for a travel cot.

You're safe

Bedside cots, or cosleepers as they're often referred to as, are specially-designed infant sleeping solutions that enable infants to sleep beside their parents without risk of SIDS. They are similar to Moses baskets or the standard baby cot, but they fasten to the the parent's bed and have one side that is open, allowing parents to access their newborn bedside cot infant. They are ideal for families that want to benefit from co-sleeping, but are worried about the dangers associated with sharing beds.

Many people worry about the safety and effectiveness of the bassinet or bedside sleeper. However, CHOICE found that these products, if used correctly are safe and result in fewer injuries and accidents. These cribs are also a great choice for new parents who struggle with exhaustion from night feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can keep an eye on the baby and comfort them if needed.

If you're looking for a secure bedside cot, you should choose one that has a durable, breathable mattress. A mattress that is breathable will aid in regulating your baby's temperature, and also prevent them from overheating. A fitted sheet that can be fitted to your mattress is an excellent idea, as well as an nappy-changing kit that has a waterproof cover. All these items are available online or in stores which specialize in baby products. It's important to remember that you shouldn't use hand-me-downs or secondhand products since they may be recalled, or damaged and do not meet the necessary safety standards.

A top-quality bedside crib is easy to assemble and is easily dismantled when not in use. Some models come with adjustable tilt positions, making it easier for children to sleep in a raised position, or for parents who suffer from reflux. Some models come with a travel bag, so you can easily pack them and take them on your journey.

It's easy to clean

foldable bedside crib cots are simple to clean, particularly when using the right products. Begin by removing bedding, like blankets, sheets or cuddly toys. Then wash them in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Then, vacuum the cot and its mattress, paying special attention to corners and crevices. Mattress protectors are an excellent idea to reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.

Next take a soft cloth that has been soaked in a baby-safe cleaning spray or a natural stain remover spray to wipe down the cot. Always dampen a new cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the surface clean. Use a soft scrub brush to remove any stains that have accumulated on the mattress. Baking soda can be used to eliminate any lingering odors. Test the cleaning solution on a small portion of the mattress before using it.

It is easier to clean and disinfect the cot if it has been taken apart. You can make use of a mild detergent and warm water solution to clean the mattress and its protector.

If your cot is constructed of wood It can be cleaned using a mixture warm water and vinegar. This natural disinfectant can kill bacteria without leaving harmful residues or damaging the wood. Test a small piece of wood to make sure it won't be damaged. Apply the solution using a soft clean cloth, then let it dry before rebuilding.

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 lets your baby sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are small, portable and easy to move from room to room when required. They are also ideal for homes with small spaces or you are planning to travel with your child.

As opposed to standard baby beds cribs for bedside use, they are designed to be attached to the side of your bed so that you can easily carry your baby in and out for night feedings and calming. They usually come with a removable or drop down side that's ideal for lifting easily and also have adjustable heights and tilt options. Some cribs can even be converted into full cot beds as your child grows, giving you added longevity and value.

Our mum testers love the portability and light weight of these sleeping solutions, making them ideal for travel. "It's very compact and small which means it can fit into its own bag for travel and be moved around the house quite easily," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."

The Shnuggle Air beside Crib is a different, light option that's been nominated for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Bedside Cot Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Another mum, Gulhan Arapoglu, agrees that it's easy to move and believes it's durable too. However, she adds that it's a little larger than other cribs for bed and shouldn't be used by babies who may flip or roll.

You'll be comfortable

The best bedside cribs allow newborns to sleep with their parents however, they have their own sleep space. They're typically more compact than a Moses Basket or a standard cot and can be folded and put away when not being used. They're also a lot more accessible for nighttime feeding, changing nappy and comforting. This makes them perfect for new mums recovering from a csection because they don't have to bend down as far to look after their little one in the middle of the night.

They're also a great option for parents who want to have a restful night's sleep and are worried about the risk of co-sleeping. The crib is located closer to the bed of the parent, and therefore is less likely to suffer from SIDS than sleeping in a standard cot or bassinet. This type of safe, co-sleeping known as "rooming in" is crucial for a baby's development.

You can also buy a variety of bedsides, some of which include the option of a portable mattress that you can take with you on trips and others that convert into a standalone baby cot or toddler bed. Some bedsides feature an incline position that is ideal for babies who suffer from reflux. There are also crib that is attached to the parent’s bed, or comes with locking wheels. This will stop the crib from being moved by accident while the baby sleeps.

If you're interested in the bedside sleeper, it's worth choosing one that has a durable and breathable mattress to ensure your little one'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 collapse and slide and slide, which is ideal for those 3am feeds when you're bleary-eyed. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for best bedside cots Cot, Crib or Moses Basket, is an example of an incredibly simple bedside cot to lower. It's also compact enough to fit in its travel bag, which is a bonus for busy parents traveling.