Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you're looking to keep your baby close to you for the night without any fuss A crib that is positioned at the bedside is the perfect choice. They're a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, and are in line with the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home test subjects love that the crib can rotate 360 degrees for easy access and features an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. It is easy to fold and comes with a travel bag.
Safety
Bedside cribs are a great option to keep baby close by at night without the risk of suffocation or overheating. They are attached to your bed, so 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's plenty to consider before purchasing one.
When shopping for a crib that is bedside, make sure you're looking at a model that complies with current safety standards. Many older cribs were recalled due to the risk of strangulation or entrapment caused by the gaps between the mattress as well as the sides of the crib. Make sure the crib you are considering is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November of this year.
The most significant change in the new regulations is that bedside cribs can no longer have completely drop-down sides. Instead, most models feature 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to lay close to your bed, but provide more of a protective barrier by sinking a little lower than the mattress. All of the models we have listed comply with these new requirements 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.
Verify that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is properly anchored. 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 is important to remember that a crib is only designed for sleeping and should not be used with bedding or accessories such as pillows, blankets, toys or stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued an official safe sleep advice that states that infants should sleep in their cribs or cots and not on a bed that is used by an adult or any other type or soft furnishings.
Comfort
A crib for your bed allows you to keep your baby close at night without the risk of bed-sharing, which could increase the chance of SIDS. You can also reach out to soothe your baby without getting out of bed in the middle night. It's a safe and comfortable alternative to a Moses basket or baby bassinet that is suitable for infants and babies as young as 6 months old.
The most effective models have slats which are wide and spacious enough to allow air circulation. You can also move the door or window depending on your needs. It's easy to change the diaper of your baby and nurse them or examine them at the end of 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 so it's easy to move around your home or to take with you on your travels. It should also be easy to clean, with an easily washable and removable mattress cover. The pocket on one side can be used to store extra diapers and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bed come with a mattress, while others must purchase separately. Be sure the mattress 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 is in line with the height of your own bed. Especially 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 healing.
Some models come with useful features, like the tummy-tilt feature for reflux or a detachable moses basket which can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat for storage or comes with bags. Check the price and see what bedding comes with the crib. It is usually necessary to purchase separate sheets for your child's bedside cot.
Style
Bedside cribs are an excellent option for mothers who are new. They let them keep an eye on their baby during the night and during diaper changes without getting out of their bed. They are also useful for helping babies recover from c-section or other medical conditions like reflux or colic.
The ideal crib for your bed is contingent on your lifestyle and needs. Take into consideration the safety features and whether you will be able take your baby out of the crib in order to feed them or soothe them. Also, make sure to check whether the crib comes with extras, such as rocking features. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to ensure that the crib you pick will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are generally cheaper than Moses baskets, but don't be fooled they're still loaded with fantastic features like breathable mesh and see-through sides, as well as reflux incline options and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favourite, as it combines practicality and style to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors and features stylish oak legs, which means it's sure to fit in your bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to fold and assemble, and comes with a handy bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs feature side panels that can be lowered during the day, allowing you to hold your baby and sleep safely however, they are raised at night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for example, has this feature, though one of our MFM home testers had difficulty getting it to use at first.
The bedding you put in a bedside crib should be a good fit and not leave any gaps that could act as suffocation hazards. This is the reason that many cribs come with mattresses that are fitted, but you can find suitable sheets at most stores. large bedside crib is a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses as they are prone to wear and become deteriorated over time, increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are lighter and more portable than Moses baskets, making them easier to move from room room or take with you during holidays. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit into the carry bag, so that you can easily transport them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without worrying about them falling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. It's important to remember that the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other official sleep guidelines suggest that you only sleep with them for the first 6 months with a separate mattress in the same space to minimize the risk of SIDS.
Depending on the model you choose, bedside cribs may have features that add to their convenience. For example, one of the top-rated models in our MFM home tests swivels and adjusts height so it's easy to reach into the crib and take your baby. The model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which an MFM home tester said gave an easy access to comfort their baby.
Certain models include extra features like a rocking function (great for fussy babies) or incline settings that help with reflux. These can be useful to have if your baby has a condition that causes reflux. However, be aware that your baby should sleep on a flat and firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Consider how easy it is to clean the model. Make sure the fabric can be machine washed and if it comes with a mattress protector that is waterproof that will shield you from leaky nappies, baby sick or spills. Some bedside cribs come with a fitted sheet, which allows you to change it and wash it.
Other things to consider are the ease with which it can assemble and how compact it is when folded away. Check if it is easy to put together and if it comes with a bag included to carry it on the road. Additionally, take note of whether it has additional features like tilting your tummy or the option of turning it into a moses basket for older babies - this could be helpful for travel.