Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib co sleeper is a fantastic option when you want your baby to be close for a peaceful evening feeding. These co-sleepers offer a safer alternative to traditional Moses' baskets. They are based on the official guidelines for safe sleeping from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
This crib is a popular choice by home testers due to the fact that it can be adjusted to fit your bed height and swivels a full 360 degrees for easy access. 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 at night without the risk of overheating or suffocating. They can be attached to your bed, which means you can reach out to soothe 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 consider prior to purchasing one.
When you're looking for a bedside crib make sure you're looking at one that meets current safety standards. Many older cribs were recalled due to the risk of strangulation or entrapment posed by the gaps between the mattress, the sides and the crib. Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November 2020.
The most significant change to the new rules is that bedside cribs can not be made with completely drop-down sides. Instead, most models feature half-height walls, which still allow your baby to sleep close to your bed, but provide a more protective barrier by sinking slightly lower than the mattress. twin bedside cot of the models on our list meet the new standards and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago both of which were shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards in 2017.
Make sure that the crib is securely affixed to your bed, and that it is properly secured. This is especially important if you plan to use it with a sidecar sleeper such as the freestanding Graco Pack 'n Play on the go or the Graco BassiNest Premiere, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby awards.
It's important to keep in mind that a crib is only designed for sleeping and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or accessories such as pillows, blankets, toys, or stuffed animal. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued a safe sleep guidelines that state that infants should only sleep in their crib or cot and not on an adult's bed, or any other kind of soft furniture.
Comfort
A crib for bedside use allows you to keep your child safe during the night, without having to take the danger that they might be shared with other babies. This could increase the chance of SIDS. It also means that you can easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without needing to get up. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to an infant Moses basket or infant bassinet for your newborn and babies as young as 6 months old.
The top models offer good airflow, with slats that are wide enough and open enough to allow airflow. You can also move the window or door depending on your needs. It is easy to change the diaper of your baby, nurse them, or check on their sleep at the end of the night. Some models even come with the swaddle sack, which can help you to have a secure sleep routine.
You'll want a mattress that is lightweight and compact when folded, making it easy to move around your home or transport to your destination. The mattress cover must be removable and washable, making it simple to clean. The pocket at one end can be used to store extra baby clothes and nappies.
Some cribs with a bedside include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure the mattress is specifically designed for your model and is supple, flat and comfortable. Avoid mattresses that are second-hand as they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that has an adjustable height to ensure that it matches the height of your own bed. Particularly if you're recovering C-sections, a bedside crib that has an adjustable height will give you a better chance of getting in and out of bed quickly especially in the initial weeks of recovering.
Some models come with useful features, like an adjustable tummy tilt to prevent reflux, or a detachable moses basket which can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Other features to consider include whether the crib is rocking, folds down to lie flat for storage, or comes with a travel bag. It's also worth checking how much the model costs and the bedding included - it's usually necessary to purchase additional sheets for your baby's bedside crib.
Style
New moms appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside 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 other medical condition like reflux or colic.
The ideal crib for your bed is contingent on your lifestyle and needs. Consider the safety features and whether you are able to lift your baby from the crib to feed or calm them. Also, check if the crib has any additional features, like rocking capabilities. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to ensure that the crib you select will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are cheaper than Moses Baskets, however they do have some great features, such as the breathable mesh, the see-through sides, incline options for reflux and adjustable height. Our favourite is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which is stylish and practical to make the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors and has smart oak legs, so it's sure to fit in your bedroom. Plus, it's easy to put together and fold, and comes with a handy travel bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs come with side panels that can be lower during the day, allowing you to touch your baby and sleep in a safe manner, but are raised again at night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for example, but one of our MFM Home testers found it difficult to use at first.
You must make sure that the bedding you use for a crib next to a bedside is fitted properly. There should not be gaps or other gaps, which could cause an air suffocation. That's why many cribs come with a fitted mattress, but sheets that are suitable for use at most stores. Avoid second-hand mattresses because they will wear out and deteriorate with time, increasing the chance of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are lighter and more portable than Moses baskets which makes them easy to move from room room or take with you during holidays. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit in bags to allow you to take them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you observe your baby without having to worry about them falling off the bed or suffocating. It's important to note that official guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends that you only sleep in a bed with your baby for the first six months with an additional bed in the same space, to lower the chance of SIDS.
Depending on small bedside cot choose, bedside cribs may feature features that increase their ease of use. One of the top-rated cribs 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 comes with a sidewall which dips down. One MFM home tester stated that this gave her gain access" to soothe their child.
Some models have additional extras, such as a rocking feature (useful for fussy babies) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These may be handy to have if your baby has an illness that causes reflux, but remember that your newborn should sleep on a flat, firm mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
When selecting a model, consider how easy it will be to clean. Check if the fabric is machine washable and if it comes with a waterproof protector to protect against leaky nappies or dribbles. Some bedside cribs come with a fitted sheet that makes it easier for you to change and wash it.
Other things to consider are how easy it is to put together and how compact when folded away. Make sure it's simple to attach to your bed and whether it comes with a bag to take it with you on your travels. Also, think about if it comes with extras such as a tummy tilt or the option to turn it into moses baskets for older children - this could be helpful for travel.