Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib co sleeper is a great option if you want your baby close by for fuss-free evening feeding. They're a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, following the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home testers love that this crib swivels 360deg to make it easy to access and comes with an adjustable mattress to match your bed. Plus, it folds easily and comes with a carry-on bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs are an excellent way to keep your baby close during the night without risking overheating or suffocating. They attach to the side of your bed so that you can easily reach out to soothe or feed your child in the middle of the night. They're also ideal for mums recovering from the c-section. There are many things to consider before investing in one.
When shopping for a bedside crib, make sure you're choosing one that meets current safety standards. A number of cribs from the past have been recalled due to the fact that they allow babies to fall in gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they could pose a risk of strangulation or entrapment. Make sure the crib you are considering is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November of 2020.
The most significant change in the new rules is that bedside cribs will not have drop-down sides. Most cribs have "half height' walls, which still allow your child to lay beside your bed, but also offer a more secure barrier since they are a bit below your 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, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
It's also worth checking that the crib you're looking at is able to attach securely to your bed and is anchored properly. This is particularly crucial if you intend to use it with a sidecar sleeper 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 is also important to remember that a crib should only be used for sleeping and should never be used with bedding or accessories like blankets, pillows, toys or toys for 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 a bed for an adult, or any other type of soft furnishings.
Comfort
A bedside crib will allow you to keep your child in close proximity at night, without the danger that they might be sharing a crib with another infant. This could increase the chance of SIDS. You can also reach out to comfort your baby without having to get out of bed in the middle night. It's a safe, practical and comfortable alternative to a Moses basket or infant bassinet for your newborn and infants up to 6 months old.
The most effective models have slats that are wide and spacious enough to allow for air flow. They also feature windows or doors that can be rolled up or down depending on the need. It's easy to change your baby's diaper or nurse them, or check on them at the end of the night. Some models include an swaddle bag that can help you create a safe sleeping routine.
It should be small and light when folded so that it is easy to carry around the house. The mattress cover should be removable and washable, making it easy to clean. The pocket at the other end can be used to store extra nappies and baby clothes.
Some bedside cribs come with a mattress and others you need to purchase separately. Make sure the mattress is firm, flat, and comfortable. Avoid using second-hand mattresses as they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find the right crib that can be adjusted to the height of your bed. A bedside crib that is adjustable in height can be a great help to you, especially if you are recovering from a C-section.
Certain models have additional features that could be beneficial, such as tilting the tummy for reflux, or detach to make a moses' basket, and later a toddler playpen. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat for storage, or comes with a bag. Find out the price and what bedding comes with the crib. It is often necessary to purchase separate sheets for your child's cot at bedside.
Style
New mothers appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them monitor their baby during night feedings and nappy changes without having to get out of the bed. They also help babies settle after a c-section or after recovering from other medical conditions, such as reflux or colic.
The best crib for your child is based on your preferences and lifestyle. Aside from the obvious safety features, consider whether you'd like to be capable of lifting your child from the crib to feed them or calm them, and if it has any extras such as a rocking function. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to make sure that the crib you select will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are less expensive than Moses Baskets, however they still have excellent features, including breathable mesh and see through sides, incline options for reflux 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's available in three colors with stylish oak legs that make it a great fit for any bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to fold and assemble, and comes with a handy travel bag for trips to the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be lower during the day, allowing you to touch your baby and co-sleep safely and then raised at 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 for the first time.
bedside cot co sleeper use in a crib for bed must fit properly and should not leave any gaps that could serve as suffocation hazards. This is the reason that many cribs come with a fitted mattress, but sheets that are suitable for use at most retailers. It is a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses as they may be worn out and become deteriorated over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are lighter and 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 into bags to allow you to take them on short journeys.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without having to worry about them rolling off the mattress or suffocating. However, it's important to keep in mind that the official guidelines for safe sleep 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 room, to lower the risk of SIDS.
Based on the model you choose the crib that you choose for your bed could come with features that make it more practical. For instance, one of the top-rated models in our MFM home tests can swivel and adjusts height, making it easy to reach into the crib and pick up your little one. This model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which an MFM home tester said gave an easy access to soothe their infant.
Some models have additional extras for example, the ability to rock (useful for babies with a lot of fuss) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These are useful to have if your baby suffers from a condition that causes reflux, but remember that your newborn should rest on a flat, firm mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
When selecting a model be aware of how easy it is to keep clean. Find out if the fabric can be machine washable and if it has a waterproof protector to guard against leaky nappies or dribbles. Some bedside cribs come with a fitted sheet, which makes it easier to wash and change it.
Consider the ease of assembly as well as the compactness when folded. Check if it's easy to attach to your bed and whether it comes with a bag to take it with you on your travels. Check if the product comes with extras such as a tummy-tilt or the ability to convert it into the form of a Moses basket for older children. This can be helpful when travelling.