Bedside Cot Newborn
Newborns require a safe, cosy and confined sleeping area. A bedside cot newborn allows you to easily reach your baby at night for feedings and soothing.
It also has a storage area, which is perfect for storing extra blankets and nappies to change your baby's diapers in the morning. MFM mum home tester Roanna also loved how the side wall can be moved down to make it easier for access to her baby.
Easy to reach
The best cribs for bedside use are designed to be placed close to your bed, so you are able to easily reach your baby during nighttime feedings and diaper changes. They will feature mesh sides that you can see your baby's face through, which means you can monitor them easily at night. The cribs will be lightweight and portable, meaning you can move them from room to room at your own convenience. Ideally, the crib should be secured to your bed using straps for safety or a harness to hold it in the right place. The mattress should be firm, breathable and comfortable for your baby.
The SnuzPod4 crib is an excellent model. It can be attached to most beds and has unique swivel features that allows you to turn it for maximum accessibility even when you're in bed. It comes with a variety of technological features, too, such as ComfortAir breathable technology and an optional reflux tilt. It's available at an affordable price and it's not only affordable but also practical.
Another crib to consider for a bedside looking into is the Joie Roomie Glide next-to me crib. This crib glides smoothly, lulling babies back to sleep. It can also be adjusted for different levels. bedside travel crib comes with a luxurious mattress that's thick, cushioned and waterproof. It is essential to choose the right mattress for the crib. Second-hand mattresses may increase the chance of SIDS and lose their support with time.
Avoid using soft bedding in the crib, like pillows and duvets. They could cause your baby to suffocate and cause them to choke, so instead use a muslin cot cover made of cotton and light blanket. Also, you should remove any toys or items from the crib of your baby before you go to sleep as they could pose a suffocation risk. It is also important to ensure that the room is still, dark and peaceful before you put your baby to sleep. This will help them rest peacefully. Simple, soothing routines such as reading a book or singing a lullaby are useful.
Easy to clean
A cot that is placed at the bedside is the best choice for your infant, since it lets you keep your baby close throughout the day. It also ensures that your baby is not caught in sheets or blankets and can easily reach their toys while they are awake. When you purchase a crib for your newborn, check that it is in compliance with British safety standards and doesn't have any parts that are loose. It is better to buy a brand new crib instead of a used one since older cribs may have a lot of problems.
It is important to clean the cot regularly to ensure it is free from germs, dust, and debris. The bedding for the baby and the mattress must be removed from the cot, and cleaned according to the instructions of the manufacturer. This will kill any bacteria and mites that could be living in the fabric. It is best to use a hypoallergenic, non-scented laundry detergent. This will prevent skin irritation and allergies in infants that can be caused by scented laundry products. It is also recommended to wash your bedding in hot water, as the high temperatures kill mites and germs faster.
Remove any toys or stuffed animal from the crib while cleaning. These can be dangerous for young children as they are prone to chewing them. Toys and stuffed animal toys can be able to stick to the cot's surface which can cause a bad smell.
Make sure to check your bed for signs that it's worn out. If you notice any loose parts, tighten them as soon as possible. Remove mobiles as well as any other objects hanging over the cot since they can strangle the child. Also, don't place the cot next to the radiator or in direct sunlight.
When cleaning the cot you should choose a non-toxic cleaner. You should avoid exposing infants and toddlers to harsh chemicals since they are often exposed to and taste surfaces. If you can, you can use an easy-to-clean detergent or a natural mixture of vinegar and lemon juice. It is also important to air out the cot frequently by putting it in a space that is well-ventilated or outdoors on a sunny day.
Easy to move
The best cribs for bedside use are lightweight and portable, meaning they can be moved from room to room when needed. They also let you keep your baby close to you while allowing them to rest on their own. It is important to know that the official guidelines for safe sleep from the NHS and Lullaby Trust state that newborns shouldn't be co-slept due to suffocation risk.
A good bedside crib will have a mesh mattress and sides that are translucent enough to allow you to observe your baby without disturbing them. It should be raised slightly off the ground to let your baby breathe. It also needs a firm, flat surface. You should be able to find sheets that will fit the mattress perfectly. The Lullaby Trust also recommends using a breathable swaddle, if you decide to use one.
Many of the best cribs for sleeping are small enough to let you effortlessly lift your child towards you in order to feed them during the middle of the night. This is an excellent option for mums who are breastfeeding and also allows your partner to feel more involved in the baby's life. This crib model is a great choice for babies with reflux because it allows them to gently tilt into an anti-reflux pose. This crib is best used under the guidance of your GP or health care professional.
Another option is a bassinet-style crib that can be slid onto the side of your bed. It has a drop down side that lets you access your baby easily as well as be used as a stand-alone crib for travelling. It is a great option for reducing the risk of SIDS, however you should check whether it's properly fitted and that it is compliant with British safety standards.
A popular model is the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue, which can be used as a standard bassinet, or attached to your bed for side-by-side sleeping. It is easy to move around the house since it has wheels and plenty of storage space. It comes with a manual rocking feature which can soothe a child who is fussy.
Easy to assemble
A bedside cot for infants is a bassinet style co-sleeper which attaches to the sides of an adult bed. This allows you to easily reach your baby at night to feed them and help soothe them back to sleep. It's an excellent option for mothers who are new and need to rest while recovering from c-sections or those who need a safe space for their infant to sleep. These beds are designed to stop the head of your child from being accidentally covered. They also have a sturdy base, so you don't have to be concerned about them falling out. Some models feature a gentle motion that can help soothe your infant to sleep, and others come with a sound system and night light to to soothe your baby.
When choosing a bedside cot, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Some manufacturers list all the screws needed to put it together however you may need to purchase additional screws if your kit doesn't include all of them. Look for key phrases in the guidebook alongside the screw listings, such as "not included" or "sold separately," to ensure you're purchasing the correct screws. Bring the booklet to the hardware store if you need to purchase extra screws. This will prevent confusion.
If you have a larger budget, consider investing in a convertible bedside crib that converts into a full-sized cot when your baby outgrows it. These beds are a great option for people who travel frequently and have a limited storage space at home, as they can be easily packed up and transported from room to the next room.
It is essential to teach your child to sleep in the cot instead of sharing a bed. This will lower the risk of SIDS. SIDS is more prevalent in babies who share beds with their parents. To help your infant to settle in the cot, ensure that it is clean and has a comfortable mattress, and tuck in the sheets so they don't hang over the shoulders of your baby. Swaddling your child is another option however, you should stop once your baby is able to turn over.