Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you're looking to keep your baby close for the night without any fuss, a crib with a co-sleeper at the bedside is the perfect choice. They're a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets, following the official guidelines for safe sleeping from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
This crib is a favorite among home testers since it can be adjusted to suit your bed height and swivels a full 360 degrees for easy access. Plus, it folds easily and comes with a carry-on bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs let you keep your baby close to you at night without the risk of suffering from suffocation. They are attached to your bed, which means you can reach out to comfort or feed your child during the middle of the night. They're also great for mothers who are recovering from having a c-section. There are many things to think about before purchasing one.
If you are searching for an appropriate crib to be placed next to your bed, make sure that the crib you pick conforms to current safety standards. A number of cribs from the past were recalls due to the danger of strangulation or entrapment caused by the gaps between the mattress, the sides and the crib. Make sure that the crib you choose meets the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement, which was introduced in November 2020.
large bedside crib prohibit cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely fall down. Instead, most models feature 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to sleep close to your bed, but offer a more secure barrier by sinking a little lower than the mattress. All of the models we have listed conform to these new requirements, including the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago that were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Check that the crib is securely affixed to your bed and that it is securely fixed. This is especially crucial if you intend to use it with a sleeper that is a sidecar, such as the free-standing Graco Pack 'n Play on the move or the Graco BassiNest Premiere, which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby awards.
It is important to remember, too, that a crib is designed for sleeping and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or other items like pillows, blankets, toys or stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued an official safe sleep guidelines that state that infants should sleep in their crib or cot and not on an adult's bed, or any other kind of soft furnishings.
Comfort
A bedside crib will allow you to keep your child close at night, without the possibility that they could be shared with another baby. This could increase the risk of SIDS. It is also a way to easily reach over and soothe your baby in the middle of the night without needing to get out of bed. It's a safe and comfortable alternative to a Moses basket or infant bassinet for babies and babies up to 6 months old.
The top models offer good breathability and slats that are wide enough to let air flow. You can also move the window or door as you need. This makes it easy to change your baby's diapers, nurse him, or check on them during the night. Some models come with the swaddle bag to aid in creating a safe sleeping routine.
You'll want a mattress that is light and compact when folded making it easy to move around the house or transport to your destination. It is also easy to clean, and come with a the option of removing and washing the mattress cover. The pocket on one side can be used to store spare nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs for bedside use a mattress, while others have to buy separately. Make sure the mattress is designed specifically for your model and is firm, flat and breathable. Avoid second-hand mattresses as they increase the risk of SIDS.
Look for a crib with an adjustable height to ensure that it matches the height of your bed. A bedside crib that is adjustable in height could be very beneficial to you, particularly if you are recovering from a C-section.
Some models have extra features that can be useful for parents, like a tummy tilt for reflux, or the ability to detach to transform into a moses basket, and later a toddler playpen. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, can be folded flat for storage, or comes with a bag. Check the price and see what bedding is included with the crib. It is often necessary to buy separate sheets for your child's bedside cot.
Style
New mothers are enthralled by the convenience of bedside cribs that allow them to monitor their baby during night feeds and changing nappy without having to get out of the bed. They can also be useful in helping babies recover from a C-section or any other medical issue like reflux or colic.
The best crib for you depends on your requirements and lifestyle. Consider the safety features and if you will be able take your baby out of the crib to feed them or calm them. Also, consider whether the crib comes with extras, such as rocking capabilities. Check the height and size of your bed to make sure that the crib you pick can be comfortably.
Bedside cribs are less expensive than Moses Baskets, however they have amazing features, like the breathable mesh, the see-through sides, reflux incline option and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our preferred choice, as it blends both style and practicality into the perfect co-sleeper. It comes in three colors and comes with stylish oak legs, which means it's perfect for your bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to put together and fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to the grandparents.
foldable bedside crib have side panels that can be lower during the day, allowing you to touch your baby and sleep safely however, they are raised at the night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for instance, but one of our MFM Home test participants found it difficult to use initially.
You must make sure that the bedding used for a crib beside a bed is properly fitted. There should be no gaps or other openings which could lead to suffocation. This is why a lot of cribs have an adjustable mattress, however you can find suitable sheets at most stores. It is a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses as they may be worn out and deteriorate over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs also are much lighter and more portable than Moses baskets. This makes them more convenient to move from room to room, or to take when you go on trips on. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit into bags so that you can easily transport them on short trips.
large bedside cot are great for parents and babies as they let you see your baby at night without the fear of them falling off your mattress or getting suffocated. It's important to keep in mind that the official safe sleep guidance from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends you only co-sleep with your baby during the first six months with a separate bed in the same room, to reduce the chance of SIDS.
Depending on the model that you select, bedside cribs could have features that add to their convenience. One of the best cribs in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in the height so that it is easier for you reach in and pick up your child. This model also has a sidewall that dips down, which one MFM home tester reported gave her "easy access" to soothe their infant.
Certain models come with additional features like a rocking function (useful for babies with a lot of fuss) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These may be handy to have if your baby suffers from an illness that causes reflux. However, remember that your newborn should sleep on a flat, firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Think about how easy it is be to clean the model. Find out if the fabric is machine washable and if it comes with a mattress protector that is waterproof, which will protect from leaky nappies and infant sick or dribbles. Some cribs come with a fitted sheet that makes it easier to wash and change.
Other things to consider are how easy it is to assemble and how compact it is when folded away. Consider whether it is easy to attach to your bed and if it comes with a bag to take it with you on your travels. Consider if the product has extras such as a tummy-tilt or the ability to convert it into an oversized Moses basket for older children. This can be useful when travelling.