Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib with a co-sleeper is a great choice when you want your baby to be close for a peaceful nighttime feeding. They are a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, based on the official guidelines for safe sleeping from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home test subjects love that this crib rotates 360deg to make it easy to access and features an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. Plus, it folds easily and comes with a travel bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs are a great option to keep your baby close throughout the night without putting them at risk of overheating or suffocating. They can be attached to your bed, which means you can reach out to comfort or feed your child during the middle of night. They are also ideal for mothers recovering from an c-section. There's plenty to think about before you purchase one.
When you're looking for a bedside crib ensure you're buying an item that is in line with current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that have been recalled because they allow babies to fall in gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they can pose a danger of strangulation and entrapment. Check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement that was released in November 2020.
The new regulations prohibit cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely fall down. Instead, the majority of models have 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to sleep next to your bed, but offer a more secure barrier by sinking a bit lower than the mattress. All of the models we have listed conform to these new requirements and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago that were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards in 2017.
It's also important to ensure that the crib you're considering purchasing is able to attach securely to your bed and is attached properly. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the crib with a sidecar sleep system like the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go or the Graco BassiNest Premiere which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards.
It's also important to remember that the crib should only be used to sleep and should not be used with bedding or other accessories, such as pillows, blankets, toys or animals that are stuffed. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued a safe sleep advice that states that babies should sleep only in their crib or cot and not on a bed for an adult, or any other type of soft furniture.
Comfort
A crib for your bed lets you keep your baby close throughout the night, without the danger of bed-sharing, which can increase the risk of SIDS. It is also a way to easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without needing to get out of bed. It's a safe, practical and comfortable alternative to an infant Moses basket or infant bassinet for your newborn and infants up to 6 months old.
The best models come with slats that are wide and spacious enough to allow for air flow. They also feature an opening or window that can be folded up or down when needed. This makes it easier to change your baby's diaper, nurse them, or check on them throughout the night. Some models include a swaddle bag to assist you in establishing a secure sleeping routine.
You want a mattress that is light and compact when folded, making it easy to move around your home or take away with you. The mattress cover should be able to be removed and washable, making it simple to clean. A pocket on one end is useful to store nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bed come with a mattress, while others have to buy separately. Make sure the mattress is designed specifically for your model and is flat, firm and comfortable. Avoid mattresses that are second-hand as they increase the risk of SIDS.
Look for a crib with an adjustable height to ensure that it's in line with the size of your own bed. Particularly if you're recovering from a C-section, a bedside crib that has an adjustable height gives you a greater chances of getting in and out of bed quickly especially in the initial days of recovering.
Some models come with useful extras, such as the tummy-tilt feature to prevent reflux, or a detachable moses' basket which can later be used as a toddler playpen. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat to store, or comes with a bag. It's also worth checking how much the model costs and what bedding is included - it's usually necessary to purchase additional sheets for your baby's crib.
bedside cot wooden are enthralled by the convenience of bedside cribs that allow them to monitor baby during night feeds and nappy changes without getting out of bed. They are also useful for helping babies recover from C-section or any other medical issue like reflux or colic.
The ideal crib for your bed is contingent on your lifestyle and requirements. Be aware of safety features and whether you will be able remove your baby from the crib in order to feed them or calm them. Also, check whether the crib comes with extras, such as a rocking feature. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to make sure that the crib you choose will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are generally more affordable than Moses baskets, but don't be fooled - they're still packed with fantastic features like breathable mesh and see-through sides, as well as reflux incline options and adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favorite, since it combines both style and practicality into the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors with elegant oak legs that fit into any bedroom. It's also easy to put together and fold, and comes with a handy carry bag for trips to grandparents.
Some cribs feature side panels that can be lower in the daytime to allow you to touch your baby and sleep in a safe manner, but are raised again 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 should make sure that the bedding you choose for a crib next to a bedside is fitted properly. There should not be gaps or other openings which could cause suffocation. This is the reason that many cribs have an adjustable mattress, however you can purchase suitable sheets at a variety of retailers. It is a good idea to avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they may be worn out and deteriorate over time, posing a risk of increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs also are much lighter and easier to transport than Moses baskets. This makes them easier to move from room rooms, or to take on trips on. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit in bags so that you can easily take them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you observe your baby without worrying about them falling off the bed or suffocating. It is important to remember that the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other sleep guidelines that are official recommend you only co-sleep your baby with them for the first six months, with a separate mattress in the same room to reduce the chance of SIDS.
Depending on which model you choose the bedside crib could come with features that make it more practical. One of the cribs that received the highest ratings in our MFM home test can swivel and is adjustable in the height so that it is easier for you reach in and pick up your child. The model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which an MFM home tester said gave her "easy access" to hold their infant.
Some models have extra features such as a rocking feature (great for babies with a lot of fuss), or incline settings that help with reflux. These are useful for children with a condition that causes reflux, but your newborn should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to prevent suffocation and overheating.
When selecting a model, consider the ease to keep clean. Make sure the fabric is machine washable and if it has a waterproof protector to keep away leaky nappies and drips. Some cribs come with fitted sheets that make it easier to wash and change.
Other things to consider are the ease with which it can assemble and how compact it is when folded away. Make sure the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with a bag included to carry it on the road. Also, think about if it has additional features like a tummy tilt or the possibility of turning it into a moses basket for older children - this is a great option for traveling.