Bedside Cot Newborn
Newborns need a secure comfortable, warm and cozy sleeping space. A cot with a bedside position 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 is an MFM mum who tested the product at home, also liked the fact that the side wall could be lowered to make it easier for her to get her baby in.
Easy to reach
The best cribs for bedside use will be built to sit next to your bed, so that you are able to easily reach your baby for nighttime feedings and nappy changes. They will come with mesh sides that you can view your baby's face through, which means you can monitor them easily at night. They will also be lightweight and easy to move from room to room to accommodate your needs. The crib should be securely connected to the mattress with safety straps, or a harness. The mattress should be firm and breathable to ensure your newborn stays at ease throughout the night.
One of the best examples is the SnuzPod4 crib that can be fitted to any bed and has a unique swivel function that allows you to rotate it to the right side for maximum access even while you're in the bed. It comes with a variety of technological features, too, such as ComfortAir breathability technology and an optional reflux tilt. It's also reasonably priced which makes it not just practical, but also affordable.
The Joie Roomie Glide Next-to Me crib is another bedside crib worth considering. It glides effortlessly and soothes babies back to sleep. It can also be adjusted for different levels. The mattress is thick, padded, and water-resistant. It's important to keep in mind that you should only purchase a mattress that's specifically designed for use in the crib and second-hand mattresses increase the risk of SIDS and may become less supportive in time.
It's also a good idea to stay clear of bedding with soft materials like duvets or pillows in the crib. They could cause your baby to suffocate and you should instead use a muslin cot cover made of cotton and a blanket. Also, you should remove any toys or other items from your baby's crib before you go to sleep as they could be a risk of suffocation. It is also important to ensure that the room is still, dark and peaceful before putting your baby to bed. This will help them rest peacefully. Simple, soothing routines like reading a story or singing a lullaby can be also beneficial.
Easy to clean
It is best to choose a cot that is placed at your bedside for your baby, since it keeps your baby close. It ensures that your baby won't get caught in blankets or sheets, and that they can access their toys easily while awake. When buying a cot for your newborn, ensure it is in compliance with British safety standards and does not have any parts that are loose. It is advisable to buy an entirely new crib instead of a second-hand crib as older cribs can be prone to problems.
Cleaning the cot regularly is essential to keep it free of dust, germs and dirt. You must take the mattress and baby bedding from the cot and wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will help kill the mites and bacteria that could be living in the fabric. It is recommended to use a hypoallergenic and non-scented laundry detergent. This will prevent skin irritation and allergies in babies caused by products that are scented. It's also a good idea to wash bedding with hot water because the high temperatures kill more germs and mites.
While cleaning, remove bedside cots or stuffed animals from the cot. They could pose a risk for children who tend to chew them. Toys and stuffed animal toys can also stick to cot surfaces which can cause a bad smell.
Take this opportunity to inspect your cot for signs that it is worn out. If any of the parts are loose then tighten them as soon as you notice it. Remove mobiles and any other objects that are hanging over the cot, as they could strangle the child. Don't place the cot next to a radiator or in direct sunlight.
You should only use non-toxic cleaning solutions for cleaning the cot. This is because infants and toddlers frequently touch and taste surfaces, so you want to be sure to keep them away from harsh chemicals. If you can, you can use mild detergent or a natural mix of vinegar and lemon juice. You should also air the crib on a regular basis by putting it in an open space or outdoors in the sun on a summer afternoon.
Easy to move
The best bedside cribs are light and portable, so they can be moved from room to room. You can keep your baby close to you, while still allowing him to sleep independently. This is essential because the official guidelines for safe sleep from the NHS and Lullaby Trust states that newborns should not be slept with adults because of the risk of suffocation.
A good bedside crib should include a mesh mattress and side panels that are transparent enough to allow you to observe your baby without waking them up. It should be elevated slightly off the ground so that your baby can breathe. It also requires a firm, flat surface. You will be able to purchase sheets for your mattress that are perfectly sized, and the Lullaby Trust recommends using a air-conditioned cotton swaddle if opt to use one.
Many of the best cribs for sleeping are small enough that you can easily lift your child towards you in order to feed them during the middle of night. This is a fantastic option for mothers who breastfeed and also lets your partner feel more involved in the baby's life. This crib model is a great option for babies suffering from reflux because it allows them to gently tilt into an anti-reflux posture. However, it should be used with care and only in accordance with your GP or health visitor.
A bassinet-style cot can be attached to the mattress's side. It has a drop down side that allows you to reach your baby easily, while it can also be used as a stand-alone crib to travel with. It's a great option to lower the risk of SIDS. But, you should be sure that it's fitted correctly and meets British safety standards.
A very popular model is the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue, which can be used as a standard bassinet or affixed to your bed for secure side-by-side sleep. It has wheels and plenty of storage space, which means it is easy to move from room room. It also has a manual rocking feature that can soothe a child who is fussy.
Easy to assemble
A bedside cot newborn is a co-sleeper in the style of a bassinet that is attached to the side of your adult bed, allowing you easy access for evening feedings and helping to soothe your baby back to sleep. This is a great solution for a mother who is recovering from a csection or want to provide a safe place to sleep for your baby. These beds are designed so that your baby's head won't be accidentally covered and also feature a solid base so that you don't have to fret about your child falling out of their crib. Some models have a gliding motion that helps lull your baby to sleep, while others include a sound machine and night light to help soothe your little one.
Make sure you read the instructions given by the manufacturer prior to purchasing a bedside cot. You may need to purchase additional screws if the kit that you purchased doesn't include all of the screws listed by some manufacturers. Check the guide for words like "not included" and "sold separately" in addition to the screw listings to make sure you are purchasing the correct screws. If you need to buy additional screws, take the booklet with you to avoid any confusion at the hardware store.
If you're on a tighter budget, you may want to look into a convertible bedside cot that can be converted into a larger crib once your child has outgrown it. These beds are perfect for those who travel frequently and have limited space at home. They can be folded easily and moved from room to room.
It's important 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 comfortable and that the sheets are folded in so they do not sit on top of the shoulders of your baby. Swaddling your child is another option but you must stop as soon as your baby is able to turn over.