Bedside Cot Newborn
Newborns require a secure snug, cozy and secure sleeping space. A bedside cot for newborns lets you easily reach your baby during night feedings and comfort.
It has a storage compartment that is ideal to store extra blankets and nappies to change your baby's diapers every morning. MFM mom home tester Roanna was also impressed by the way the wall on the side can be adjusted to allow for easier access to her baby.
Easy to reach
The best cribs for bedside use are designed to be placed next to your bed so that you can easily reach your baby for night feedings and diaper changes. They will come with mesh sides that you can see your baby's face, so you can monitor them easily throughout the night. They will also be lightweight and easy to move between rooms for your convenience. The ideal crib should be affixed to your bed using straps for safety or a harness to hold it in place. The mattress should be firm and breathable to ensure that your infant is comfortably throughout the night.
One of the best examples is the SnuzPod4 crib that can be fitted to any bed and has an innovative swivel mechanism that lets you turn it upside down to make it easier to access even while you're in the bed. It also comes with many technological features such as ComfortAir breathable tech and an optional reflux tilt. It's available at a great price, too, so it's not only affordable but also practical.
Another bedside crib that's worth looking into is the Joie Roomie Glide next to me crib. bedside crib travel cot is smooth glide that eases babies back to sleep. It can be adjusted to different heights. The mattress is thick, cushioned and water-resistant. It's important to note that you should use mattresses specifically designed for the crib and second-hand mattresses increase the chance of SIDS and could be less supportive as time passes.
It's recommended to avoid using soft bedding, such as pillows or duvets, in the crib. This could suffocate your baby and you should instead use a cotton muslin cot sheet and a light blanket. Before you go to bed, take away everything that toys and other items are from the crib. They can suffocate your baby. It's also a good idea to keep the room dark and quiet before you put your newborn down for bed, so they can rest peacefully. It's also helpful to establish simple routines that are relaxing, such as reading the story or listening to an song to soothe your baby.
Easy to clean
It is best to choose an cot with a bedside location for your baby, as it lets you keep your baby close. It ensures your baby doesn't get tangled up in sheets or blankets, and they are able to reach their toys easily when awake. Check that the cot meets British safety standards and that there aren't any loose parts. It is advisable to buy an entirely new crib instead of a second hand one as older cribs can have a variety of issues.
Regularly cleaning the cot is vital to ensure it's free of germs, dust and other debris. It is recommended to remove the mattress and baby bedding from the cot and clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will help to remove any bacteria or mites present in the fabric. It is recommended to use hypoallergenic, non-scented laundry detergent. This will help prevent allergies and skin irritation in infants that could be caused by products that are scented. It's also a good idea to wash bedding with hot water because the heat kills more mites and germs.
While cleaning, remove any toys or stuffed animals from the cot. They can pose a risk to young children, since they are susceptible to chewing them. Besides, toys and stuffed animals can be stuck to the cot's floor, creating an unpleasant smell.
It is also advisable to take the opportunity to inspect the coffin for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any loose parts and need to be tightened, do so immediately. Take away mobiles and other objects that are hanging over the cot as they could strangle the child. Also, make sure to keep the cot away from an open flame or in direct sunlight.
When cleaning the cot, you should choose a non-toxic cleaning solution. You should avoid exposing infants and toddlers to harsh chemicals as they are often exposed to and taste surfaces. If you can, use mild detergent or a natural mix of vinegar and lemon juice. It is also recommended to air the crib regularly by placing it in an open space or outdoors in the sun on a summer afternoon.
Easy to move
The best cribs for bedside use are light and portable, so you can move them around from room to room. They also let you keep your newborn close while allowing them to rest on their own. This is crucial because the official safe sleeping guidance from the NHS and Lullaby Trust states that babies should not be co-slept with adults, due to suffocation risks.
A crib that is suitable for a bedside infant will have a mesh-mattress and side panels that let you observe your baby without disturbing them. It should be elevated just a little from the ground to let your baby breathe. It also requires a firm, flat surface. You will be able to purchase sheets for the mattress that are perfectly sized and the Lullaby Trust recommends using a breathable cotton swaddle if you opt to use one.
Many of the best bedside cots are tiny enough that you can easily move your baby towards you during feeding time. This is a great feature for breastfeeding mums as it helps your partner feel more involved with the baby. This kind of crib can be a good option for babies who have reflux since it allows them to be gently tilted in an anti-reflux posture. However, this should be used with care and only as advised by your health care provider or doctor.
Another alternative is a bassinet cot, which can be slid onto the bed's side. It comes with a drop-down feature to allow you to reach your baby easily. It can also be used to travel as crib. It's a good alternative to lower the risk of SIDS, but you should check that it is properly fitted and that it is compliant with British safety standards.
The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue is a popular model. It can be used as a regular bassinet, or a bed for side-by-side safe sleeping. It is easy to move around your home because it has wheels and lots of storage space. It also comes with a manual rocking function that can help calm a baby who is crying.
Easy to put together
A bedside cot for newborns is a co-sleeper in the style of a bassinet that fixes to the side of your adult bed, allowing you easy access to evening feedings and helping to soothe your baby back to sleep. This is a great choice if you're a new mum recovering from a csection or you want to provide a secure sleeping area for your infant. The beds are designed so that your baby's head can't be covered accidentally and also feature an extremely secure base, so you don't have any worries about your baby falling out of the crib. Some models feature the ability to glide that will help your baby sleep and some include a sound machine or night light.
Be sure to review the instructions given by the manufacturer prior to purchasing a bedside cot. Some manufacturers provide all the screws required for assembly however you may need to purchase additional screws if the kit doesn't contain all of them. Look for key words in the guidebook in the list of screws for example "not included" or "sold separately," to ensure you're purchasing the correct screws. Bring the guide to the hardware store if you need to purchase extra screws. This will help avoid confusion.
If you have a larger budget, consider investing in an adjustable bedside crib that can be converted into a full-sized cot when your baby is no longer able to use it. These beds are a great option for those who frequently travel and have limited storage space at home, because they can be easily packed up and moved from room the next room.
It is essential to teach your baby to sleep in the cot, instead of sharing a bed. This will lower the risk of SIDS which is more prevalent for babies who share a bed with their parents. Make sure the crib is clean and has a comfortable mattress and that the sheets are folded into the cot so that they don't sit on top of the shoulders of your baby. Swaddling your baby is another option, but you should stop as soon as your baby is able to turn over.