Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you're looking to keep your baby close for an easy nighttime feeding A crib that is positioned at the bedside is the best option. They're a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, based on the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
This crib is a favored by home testers due to the fact that it can be adjusted to suit the bed's height, and it swivels all 360 degrees for easy access. 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 fear of being suffocated. They can be attached to the sides of your bed so that you can easily reach out to feed or soothe your child during the night, and they're also ideal for mums recovering from an op. There are many things to consider before investing in one.
When looking for a crib to put next to your bed, be sure that the model you choose conforms to current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that have been recalled due to the fact that they allow babies to fall through the 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 meets the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November 2020.
The most significant change in the new rules is that bedside cribs will not have drop-down sides. Instead, the majority of models have half-height walls, which still allow your baby to sleep close to your bed, but offer a more secure barrier by sinking slightly lower than the mattress. All of the models in our list meet the new standards and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Check that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is correctly secured. This is particularly important if you intend to use the crib with a sidecar sleeping system like the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go or the Graco BassiNest Premiere which were both shortlisted for the Mother and Baby Awards.
It is important to remember that a crib is only meant for sleeping, and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or other items like pillows, blankets, toys or stuffed animals. newborn bedside cot from the Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that babies should only sleep in their own sleep 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 in close proximity throughout the night, without the risk that they may be shared with other babies. This could increase the risk of SIDS. It is also a way to easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without needing to get out of bed. It's a good alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that is safe, practical, and comfortable for your new baby and infants up to 6 months old.
The most effective models have excellent breathability and slats that are wide enough and open enough to allow airflow. They also feature an opening or window that can be folded up or down as needed. It is easy to change the diaper of your baby, nurse them, or monitor their sleep at night. Some models also 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, making it easy to move around your home or transport to your destination. The mattress cover should be removable and washable, making it simple to clean. The pocket at the other end can be used to store extra nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bed come with mattresses, while others need to purchase separately. Make sure that the mattress is firm, flat and breathable. Avoid mattresses that are second-hand as they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Choose a crib that has an adjustable height to ensure that it's in line with the size of your own bed. A bedside crib that can be adjusted in height can be very beneficial for you, particularly if you are recovering from a C section.
Certain models come with additional features that are useful like tilting the tummy for reflux, or the ability to detach to transform into a moses basket, and later a toddler playpen. Other extras to consider are whether the crib is rocking, folds down to lie flat for storage or comes with a bag for travel. It's also worth looking into how much the model costs and what bedding is included - it's often necessary to buy separate sheets for your baby's crib.
Style
New mums appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that allow them to monitor baby during night feedings and diaper changes without having to get out of the bed. They are also useful for helping babies recover from C-section or other medical condition like colic or reflux.
Choosing the best bedside crib is contingent on your needs and lifestyle. Be aware of safety features and whether you can lift your baby from the crib in order to feed them or calm them. Also, check whether the crib is equipped with extras, such as a rocking feature. Also, take a look at the size and height of your bed and check that any crib you pick will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are cheaper than Moses Baskets, however they still have great features, such as air-tight mesh, see-through sides, incline options for reflux and a height that can be adjusted. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our preferred choice, as it blends practicality and style to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors and has smart oak legs, so it's perfect for your bedroom. It's also easy to assemble and fold up, and comes with a handy bag for trips to the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be lower in the daytime to allow you to hold your baby and sleep in a safe manner however, they are raised at the night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, has this feature, but one of our MFM home testers had difficulty getting it to use at first.
You should make sure that the bedding you choose to make a crib bed is properly fitted. There should not be gaps or other gaps, that could lead to the suffocation. A majority of cribs come with mattresses. However, you can find sheets that fit in most retailers. It's a good idea to avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they can be worn down and deteriorate over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are also much more lightweight and portable than Moses baskets, making them easier to move from room room or to take along on holidays. The best bedside cribs are compact enough to fit in a carry bag, so they are easy to take with you on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without worrying about them falling 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 in a bed with your baby for the first six months - with a separate bed in the same room to lower the chance of SIDS.
The model you pick the bedside crib could have features that make it more convenient. 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. This model has a sidewall that slopes down. One MFM home tester stated that this provided her with gain access" to comfort their child.
Certain models come with additional features for example, a rocking function (useful for fussy babies) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These are beneficial for children with a condition that causes reflux, but your newborn should be sleeping on a firm, flat mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
Consider how easy it is to clean the model. Find out if the fabric can be machine washable, and if it has a waterproof protector to protect against leaky nappies or drips. Some bedside cribs come with a fitted sheet, which allows you to change and wash it.
Think about the ease of assembly and the compactness when folded. Check if it is easy to attach and if there's an included bag to carry it on the road. Check if the product comes with additional features, such as a tummy tilt or the ability to convert it into an oversized Moses basket for older children. This can be helpful when traveling.