Baby bedside cot wooden cot bedside

A crib for babies (or next-to-me crib) is a bassinet cot that can be attached to the side of your bed which allows you to reach over and comfort your baby without needing to get out of bed. Some models have an incline feature to ease reflux.

Remember, you should only sleep with your child in a bassinet, crib or bedside crib if the mattress is flat and firm to reduce the risk of being suffocated.

Cot

A bedside baby bed cot, also called a co-sleeper, or bassinet is a great way for your baby to sleep with you for the first few months. The cots are designed to sit close to your bed to allow you to easily carry your baby to you to feed them at night or soothe them to sleep. They are also great for mothers who just had a c-section.

There are a number of different models on the market however, one that stands out is the Arm's Reach Clear-Vue. The play yard is compact and is made up of four sides. Two of them are long and can be lifted out of the way by Velcro so that you can easily access your baby's nighttime feedings.

Another alternative is the Baby Hug 4 In 1 Air, which also has a drop-down side and can be turned into a recliner. This is a fantastic option for newborns through toddlers, and gives you the flexibility to alter your baby's sleeping position as they become more mobile.

Red Nose recommends that your child sleep in their own cot between the time of birth and six months. This is due to the fact that the risk of SIDS increases when babies are in bed with adults.

Cots are generally safer than bassinets because they have a fixed height that will ensure there is no gap between your baby's mattress and the adult bed. Cots are usually larger and can be converted to toddler or full-size beds when your baby grows. This can save you money.

It's important to consider your budget as well as the size of your bedroom or nursery when deciding on a bed. Be aware that cots are more expensive than bassinets, however, they are a great investment as they can last for many years and can be used by your child as she grows.

It's important to remember that you'll require a mattress for your baby's bedside crib or cot. It's vital that the mattress is firm, flat and breathable to help your baby get a good night's sleep and reduce their risk of developing breathing issues or pressure sores. Mattresses used in second-hand stores could increase the risk of SIDS in your child. Choose a mattress approved by the CPSC that adheres to current guidelines. Also, be cautious not to overload your crib or use duvets, pillows, bumpers or baby positioners which could create a suffocation hazard. A comfortable, firm mattress for your baby must support the spine. You can find a wide selection of baby mattresses on the internet, from budget choices to more expensive brands. If you're not sure, go to a store and try some out for yourself.