Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you want to keep your baby close for an easy nighttime feeding A crib that is positioned at the bedside is the ideal choice. They're a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, based on the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home testers love the fact that this crib swivels 360deg for easy access. It also comes with an adjustable mattress to fit your bed. It is also easy to fold and comes with a carry-on bag for traveling.
Safety
Bedside cribs are a great way to keep your baby close throughout the night without putting them at risk of overheating or suffocating. They can be attached to your bed so that you can reach out to help or feed your child during the middle of night. They are also ideal for mothers recovering from a c section. There are many things to consider before investing in one.
When you're looking for a crib that is bedside, ensure you're buying an item that is in line with 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 the crib you are considering is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement that was released in November 2020.
The most significant change in the new rules is that bedside cribs may no longer have completely drop-down sides. The majority of models have 'half-height' walls, which still allow your child to lie on your bed, but also offer a more secure protection since they are a bit below your mattress. All of the models we have listed meet the new standards 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.
Check that the crib is securely affixed 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, such as the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go or the Graco BassiNest Premiere which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards.
It is crucial to keep in mind that a crib is only designed for sleeping and is not meant to be used with bedding or other accessories like toys, blankets, pillows or stuffed animals. Official safe sleep advice from the Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that babies should rest in their own bed space in their crib or cot, and not on an adult bed or any other type of mattress or soft furnishings.
Comfort
A crib that is placed near your bed lets you keep your baby close by at night without the risk of bed-sharing, which can increase the likelihood of SIDS. It is also a way to easily reach over and comfort your baby in the middle of the night without needing to get out of bed. It's an alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that's safe, easy to use and comfortable for your new baby and infants up to 6 months of age.
The most effective models have good breathability, with slats that are open and wide enough to let air flow. They also come with windows or doors that can be rolled up or down as needed. It's easy to change the diaper of your baby or nurse them, or examine them at night. Some models also include the swaddle sack, which can help you sleep in a safe routine.
It should be small and light in its fold so that it is easy to transport around the house. The mattress cover should be able to be removed and washable, making it simple to clean. bedside co sleeper Cots For Tots at one end can be used to store extra nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs for bedside use a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Be sure the mattress is flat, firm, and comfortable. Avoid mattresses that are second-hand 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 can be adjusted in height can be extremely beneficial to you, particularly in the event that you are recovering from a C section.
Some models include useful extras, such as an adjustable tummy tilt to prevent reflux, or a detachable moses bin 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 bags. It's also worth looking into how much the model costs and what bedding is included - it's usually necessary to purchase separate sheets for the crib that your baby is sleeping in.
Style
New mothers appreciate the convenience of bedside cribs that let them monitor baby during feedings at night and nappy changes without getting out of the bed. They are also useful for helping babies recover from c-section or other medical conditions like reflux or colic.
Choosing the best bedside crib for your child is based on your requirements and lifestyle. Be aware of safety features and if you will be able lift your baby from the crib to feed them or soothe them. Also, check whether the crib is equipped with extras, such as rocking capabilities. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to make sure that the crib you select will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs tend to be cheaper than Moses baskets, but don't be fooled they're packed with great features like the breathable mesh and clear sides, reflux incline options and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favourite, as it combines both practicality and style into the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colours and features stylish oak legs, so it will fit right into your bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to put together and fold, and comes with a convenient travel bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs feature side panels that can be lowered during the day to allow you to hold your baby and sleep safely, but are raised again at the night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, comes with this feature, though one of our MFM home testers had difficulty getting it to use initially.
Any bedding you use in a crib bed must be fitted properly and must not leave any gaps that could act as suffocation hazards. Many cribs are fitted with a mattress. However, you can find sheets that will fit in the majority of retailers. It's a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses, which are prone to wear and degrade over time, posing a risk of increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are lighter and portable than Moses baskets which makes them easy to move from room to room or carry when you go on vacation. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit into a carry bag to allow you to take them on short journeys.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you look at your baby without having to worry about them rolling off the mattress 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 6 months, with a separate mattress in the same room to reduce the chance of SIDS.
The model you choose the bedside crib could include features that make it more convenient. One of the cribs that received the highest ratings in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in the height to make it easier to reach and pick your child up. This model has a sidewall that slopes down. One MFM home tester said that this provided her with have a'simple access" to comfort their child.
Some models have extra features such as a rocking feature (great for babies with a lot of fuss) or incline settings to help with reflux. These are beneficial for children with an illness that causes reflux, but your baby should be sleeping on a firm, flat mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
Think about how easy it is to clean the model. Make sure the fabric is machine washable and if it has a waterproof protector to guard against leaky nappies or dribbles. Some cribs come with a fitted sheet that makes it easier to wash and change.
Other features to consider include how easy it is to assemble and how compact when folded away. Be sure to check if the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with bags included to travel with. Also, think about if it has additional features like tilting your tummy or the possibility of turning it into moses baskets for older children. This could be helpful for travel.