Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib with a co-sleeper is a great option when you want your baby close to you for a relaxed evening feeding. These co-sleepers offer a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets. They are based on official safe sleeping guidelines from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
Home testers love the fact that this crib swivels 360deg for easy access and features an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. Additionally, it folds easily and comes with a carry-on bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs allow you to keep your baby close during the night without the risk of being suffocated. They attach to your bed, which means you can reach out to soothe or feed your child during the middle of night. They are also ideal for mothers who are recovering from a c section. However, there's a lot to think about before you invest in one.
When choosing an appropriate crib to be placed next to your bed, be sure that the crib you select conforms to current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that were recalled because they let children slide through gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they could pose a risk of strangulation and entrapment. Make sure that the crib you choose meets the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November of 2020.
The most significant change to the new regulations is that bedside cribs will no longer have completely drop-down sides. Instead, the majority of models have 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to lie next to your bed, but provide a more protective barrier by sinking a bit lower than your mattress. All of the models on our list conform to these new requirements which includes 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 worth checking if the crib you're considering purchasing is able to attach securely to your bed and is anchored correctly. This is particularly 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 in the Mother&Baby awards.
It's also important to keep in mind that the crib should be used only for sleeping purposes and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or accessories, such as pillows, blankets, toys or animals that are stuffed. The official safe sleep guidelines from the Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that infants should only rest in their own bed space in their crib or cot, and not on an adult bed or other mattress or soft furnishing.
Comfort
A crib that is placed near your bed will allow you to keep your child close throughout the night, without the danger that they might be sharing a crib with another infant. This could increase the chance of SIDS. It also allows you to easily reach out and comfort your baby in the middle of the night without needing to get up. It's a safe and comfortable alternative to the Moses basket or infant bassinet for babies and infants up to 6 months old.
The most effective models have slats which are wide and open enough to allow air flow. You can also roll up and down the window or door as you need. It's easy to change the diaper of your baby or nurse them, or monitor their sleep at night. Some models even come with the swaddle sack, which can help you with a safe sleep routine.
You'll want a mattress that is light and compact when folded so it's easy to move around the house or take away with you. The mattress cover should be removable and washable, making it easy to clean. The pocket at one end can be used to store extra baby clothes and nappies.
Some cribs for bedside use mattresses, while others must purchase separately. Be sure the mattress is firm, flat and breathable. Avoid second-hand mattresses since they increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that has an adjustable height 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 better chance of getting into and out of bed easily particularly in the early weeks when you're still recovering.
Certain models come with additional features that are useful like a tummy tilt for reflux, or detachable to make 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. It's also worth looking into the cost of the crib and the bedding included - it's often necessary to purchase separate sheets for the crib that your baby is sleeping in.
Style
New moms appreciate the convenience of bedside cribs that allow them to keep an eye on baby during night feedings and diaper changes without getting out of bed. They also help babies settle after a c-section or in the aftermath of other medical conditions like colic or reflux.
The ideal bedside crib will depend on your lifestyle and requirements. Be aware of safety features and if you are able to remove your baby from the crib to feed them or calm them. Also, make sure to check whether the crib is equipped with extras, like rocking capabilities. Also, consider the size and the height of your bed and check that any crib you select will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are generally cheaper than Moses baskets however don't be deceived - they're still packed with fantastic features like the breathable mesh and clear sides, as well as reflux incline options 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 has smart oak legs, which means it's perfect for your bedroom. It's also simple to put together and fold, and comes with a convenient bag for trips to grandparents.
Some cribs come with side panels that can be lowered down to allow you to touch your baby during the day and for a safer co-sleeping environment, but then appear again at night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, has this feature, though one of our MFM home testers found it tricky to use initially.
The bedding you put in a bedside crib must fit properly and must not leave any gaps that could be used as suffocation hazards. Many cribs are fitted with mattresses. However sheets are available that will fit in the majority of retailers. It's a good idea avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they are prone to wear and degrade over time, potentially 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 to room, or to take when you go on vacation. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit in the carry bag, to allow you to take them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without worrying about them rolling off the bed or suffocating. But, it's important to remember that the official safe sleep guidance from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends that you only sleep with your child for the first six months - with a separate bed in the same space, to reduce the chance of SIDS.
bedside cot sale choose the crib that you choose for your bed could have features that make it more practical. For instance, one of the top-rated models from our MFM home tests swivels and adjusts height so it's easy for you to reach inside and pick up your child. This model has a sidewall that dips down. One MFM home tester stated that this allowed her to gain access" to soothe their child.
Some models have additional extras, such as the ability to rock (useful for fussy babies) or incline settings to help with reflux. These can be useful to have if your baby has an illness that causes reflux. However, remember that your newborn should sleep on a flat and firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Think about how easy it is be to clean the model. Make sure the fabric is machine washable, and if it comes with a waterproof protector to guard against leaky nappies or drips. Some cribs with a bedside have a fitted sheet that makes it easier to change and wash it.
Think about the ease of assembly as well as the compactness when folded. Check if it's easy to attach to your bed and if it has a bag to use to take it with you on your travels. Consider if the product has extras such as a tummy-tilt or the capability to transform it into a Moses basket for older children. This can be useful when traveling.