Baby Bedside Cot
A crib for babies (or next-to-me crib) is a bassinet cot that fixes to the bed's side and allows you to reach over and comfort your baby without having to get up. Some models come with an incline feature to relieve reflux.
Remember to only sleep with your baby in a crib, bassinet or bedside crib in the event that the mattress is firm and flat to minimize the risk of inhaling.
Cot
A bedside cot, sometimes called a co-sleeper, or bassinet, is a great option for your baby to sleep with you during the first few months. The cots are made to fit next to your bed so that you can bring your baby closer to feed them at night or help soothe them back to sleep. They are also great for mums who have just had a c-section.
There are a variety of models to choose from and the Arm's reach Clear-Vue stands out. This is shaped like a small play area and has four sides with two of them long and can be lowered to the ground (secured by Velcro) to provide easy access to your baby for those middle-of-the-night feeds.
Another alternative is the Baby Hug 4 In 1 Air It also has an adjustable side that can be turned into recliner. This is a great option for infants to toddlers and provides you with the flexibility to alter the position of your baby's sleep as they grow.
It's important to note that although bassinets can be utilized as an alternative to traditional cots but Red Nose strongly recommends sleeping your infant in their own cot from birth to six months. This is because the risk of SIDS is significantly greater when babies share beds, particularly with adults, and because it's unsafe to allow an infant to sleep in a bassinet that doesn't meet the mandatory Australian safety standards.
Cots, on the other hand are safer than bassinets due to having an adjustable height that eliminates an opening between the mattress of your child and an adult bed. They're also typically larger, meaning they can be converted into full-size or toddler beds as your child grows, which could save you money in the long term.
It is important to take into account your budget as well as the size of your bedroom or nursery when choosing a model. Keep in mind that cot beds are likely to be more expensive than bassinets, but can be an excellent investment since they last for years and can be used as your child moves from infancy into the age of childhood and beyond.
You'll also need an appropriate mattress for your crib or cot. The mattress should be flat, firm and breathable to allow your baby to get an adequate night's sleep and decrease the risk of developing breathing problems or pressure sores. Be cautious of mattresses that are second-hand as these may increase the risk of SIDS. Be bedside cot bed cots4tots.co.uk select an approved brand by the CPSC and complies with the most recent guidelines. Be careful not to overload your crib or use pillows, duvets, bumpers or baby positioners which could create the risk of suffocation. A mattress that is breathable for babies must be firm enough to provide support for your baby's spine. On the internet, you can find a variety of baby mattresses, ranging from budget-friendly alternatives to luxurious brands. If you're unsure to try them out, visit a store.