Bedside Cot Newborn
Newborns need a secure and cosy confined space for sleeping. A cot that is placed at the bedside lets you easily reach your baby at night for feedings and comfort.
It also has an area for storage that is perfect for spare blankets and nappies for those morning nappy changes. Roanna, an MFM mum who tested the product at home, liked the fact that the side wall could be adjusted to make it easier for her to access her baby.
Easy to reach
The best bedside cribs will be designed to sit near your bed, so you can easily reach your baby for feeding and changing nappy at night. You can see through the mesh sides to watch your baby's sleep patterns. The cribs are light and portable, which means you can move them from room to room at your convenience. Ideally, the crib should be attached to your bed with safety straps or a harness to hold it securely in position. The mattress should be firm and breathable to ensure your newborn stays comfortable throughout the night.
One of the best examples is the SnuzPod4 crib, that can be fitted to all beds and features an innovative swivel mechanism that allows you to rotate it to the right side for maximum access, even when you're sitting in the bed. It also comes with many technological features like ComfortAir breathable tech and an adjustable reflux tilt. It's also affordable which makes it not just practical but also affordable.
The Joie Roomie Glide Next to Me crib is another bedside crib worth considering. This crib has a smooth glide that eases babies back to sleep and can be adjusted to various heights. It also has a plush mattress that's thick, cushioned and water-resistant. It is crucial to use the right mattress for the crib. Second-hand mattresses may increase the risk of SIDS and lose their support with time.
It's also a good idea to avoid using soft bedding like pillows or duvets, in the crib. This could suffocate your baby and cause them to choke, so instead use a cotton muslin cot sheet and light blanket. Also, you should remove any toys or items from the crib of your baby before you go to bed, as they can also present a danger of suffocation. Also, ensure that the room is still, dark and peaceful before you put your baby to sleep. This will allow them to sleep peacefully. A simple, soothing routine like reading a story or singing a lullaby are also beneficial.
Easy to clean
It is best to pick an cot with a bedside location for your baby, as it keeps your baby close. It will ensure that your baby doesn't get caught up in blankets or sheets, and that they can reach their toys easily when awake. When you purchase a crib for your newborn, check that it meets British safety standards and does not have any parts that are loose. It is better to buy a brand new crib than one that is used, as older cribs may have a lot of problems.
It is essential to clean the cot regularly to ensure that it is free from dust, germs, and debris. The mattress and baby bedding should be removed from the cot and washed according to the instructions of the manufacturer. This will help to eliminate any mites or bacteria present within the fabric. It is recommended to use a hypoallergenic, unscented laundry detergent. This will prevent skin irritation and allergies in infants, which can be caused by scented laundry products. It is also a good idea to wash the bedding with hot water since high temperatures will kill the mites and germs quicker.
Remove any toys or stuffed animals from the crib when you are cleaning. These can be dangerous for young children, since they are prone to chewing them. In addition toys and stuffed animals can stick to the cot's surface and create a sour smell.
It is also advisable to look over the area for signs of wear and tear. If you spot any loose parts, make sure you tighten them as soon as you can. Remove mobiles as well as any other objects hanging over the cot as they could strangle the child. Also, avoid placing the cot near the sun or a radiator.
It is recommended to use only non-toxic cleaning solutions for cleaning the cot. It is important to avoid exposing infants and toddlers to harsh chemicals as they often touch and taste surfaces. If you are able, use an easy-to-clean detergent or a natural solution of lemon juice and vinegar. You should also air the crib regularly by putting it in an open room or outside in the sun on a summer afternoon.
Easy to move
The best cribs for bedside use are lightweight and portable, so that you can move them from room to room when needed. You can keep your baby close to you while still allowing him to sleep independently. It is important to know that the official guidelines for safe sleep from the NHS and Lullaby Trust state that infants shouldn't be slept with due to suffocation risk.
A good bedside crib should include a mesh mattress and sides that are translucent enough to allow you to observe your baby without disturbing them. It should be elevated slightly off the ground so that your baby can breathe. It also needs an even, flat surface. You should be able find sheets that fit the mattress perfectly. The Lullaby Trust also recommends using an breathable swaddle should you choose to use one.
Many of the best bedside cots are compact enough to allow you to easily move your baby towards you for middle-of-the-night feeding. This is an excellent feature for breastfeeding mums, and also helps your partner feel more connected with the baby. This type of crib is a good option for babies with reflux because it allows them to gently tilt in an anti-reflux posture. However, it should be used with care and only in accordance with the advice of your health care provider or doctor.
A bassinet style cot can be attached to the side of your mattress. It features a drop-down side to allow you to reach your baby easily. It can also be used for traveling as a crib. It's a great option to decrease the risk of SIDS. However, you should ensure that it is installed correctly and complies with British safety standards.
A popular model is the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue, which can be used as a regular bassinet, or attached to your bed for side-by-side sleep. It is easy to move around the house because it has wheels and lots of storage space. It comes with a manual rocking feature which can calm a child who is agitated.
Easy to put together
A bedside cot newborn is a co-sleeper in the style of a bassinet that can be attached to the side of your adult bed, giving you easy access for nighttime feedings and soothing your baby back to sleep. It's a great option for new mothers who need to rest and recuperate from c-sections or those who want a safe place for their baby to rest. My Source are designed to ensure that your newborn's head cannot be covered accidentally and also feature a secure base so you don't have to fret about your child falling out of their crib. Some models feature a gliding motion that helps to soothe your infant to sleep, while other models include a sound machine as well as a night light to soothe your little one.
Make sure you read the instructions given by the manufacturer prior to purchasing a bedside cot. You may need to buy additional screws if the set that you purchased doesn't include all of the screws listed by a few manufacturers. You can look through the book for words such as "not included" and "sold separately" next to the screw listings to make sure you are purchasing the correct screws. If you're looking to purchase additional screws, make sure you bring the booklet with you to avoid confusion at the hardware store.
If you are on a tighter budget, look into a convertible bedside cot which can be made into a full-sized cot once your baby has outgrown it. These beds are a good option for those who frequently travel and have limited storage space at home, as they can be easily packed and transported from room to rooms.
It is essential to teach your baby to sleep in the cot, rather than sharing your bed. This will decrease the risk of SIDS. SIDS is more frequent among babies who share beds with their parents. To help your baby to settle in the cot, ensure it's clean and comfortable mattress. Also, you should make sure the sheets are tucked in so they don't sag over your baby's shoulders. Swaddling your child is a different option however, you should stop as soon as your baby learns to turn over.