Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you want to keep your baby close to you for fuss-free feeding at night A crib that is positioned at the bedside is the perfect choice. These co-sleepers offer a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets. They follow strict guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
Home testers love the fact that this crib rotates 360deg for easy access. It also features an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. It is easy to fold and comes with a bag for travel.
Safety
Bedside cribs allow you to keep your baby close at night without fear of suffering from suffocation. They attach to the sides of your bed, so you can easily reach out to feed or soothe your child during the night. They're suitable for mothers who are recovering from a c-section. But there's a lot to consider before you invest in one.
When you're looking for a crib that is bedside, make sure you're looking at an item that is in line with current safety standards. A number of cribs from the past have been recalled because they permit children to fall through the gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they pose a risk of strangulation or entrapment. Check that the crib you pick is in compliance with the new BS EN1130 safety standard, which is scheduled to be launched in November 2020.
The new rules prohibit cribs that are used for
bedside baby sleeper use from having sides that completely drop down. Instead, the majority of models have half-height walls that allow your baby to lie close to your bed, but provide a more protective barrier by sinking a bit lower than the mattress. All of the models on our list conform to these new requirements, including the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago both of which were shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
It's also worth checking if the crib you're considering is capable of being securely attached to your bed and is attached correctly. This is particularly crucial if you plan 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&Baby Awards.
It's also important to keep in mind that the crib should be used only for sleeping and should never be used with bedding or accessories such as pillows, blankets, toys, or toys for stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued a safe sleep advice that states that babies should sleep only in their cribs or cots and not on an adult's bed, or any other kind of soft furniture.
Comfort
A crib that is placed near your bed will allow you to keep your child safe during the night, without having to take the possibility that they could be shared with another baby. This can 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 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 best models have slats that are wide and spacious enough to allow air circulation. You can also move the window or door according to your needs. It's easy to change your baby's diaper or nurse them, or check on their sleep at night. Some models come with an swaddle bag that can aid in creating a safe sleeping routine.
It should be compact and light when folded, so that it is easy to transport around the home. The mattress cover should be able to be removed and washable, making it easy to clean. A pocket on one end can be useful to store nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bed come with a mattress, while others have to buy separately. Ensure that the mattress is specifically designed for your model and is firm, flat and comfortable. Avoid mattresses that are second-hand as they increase the risk of SIDS.
Choose a crib that has an adjustable height so that it's in line with the size of your bed. A
bedside cots for newborns crib that can be adjusted in height could be very beneficial to you, especially when you are recovering from a C Section.
Some models come with useful extras, like the tummy-tilt feature for reflux or a detachable moses' basket which can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Other things to consider are whether the crib is
Rocking Bedside crib and folds down so that it can lie flat for storage or comes with a
travel bedside crib bag. Check the price and see what bedding comes with the crib. It is usually necessary to purchase separate sheets for your child's
cot for bedside at bedside.
Style
New mothers appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside, which allow them to monitor their baby during night feedings and diaper changes without getting out of the bed. They also help babies settle after a csection or when recovering from other medical conditions like colic or reflux.
The ideal bedside crib will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Apart from the obvious safety features, think about whether you want to be able to get your baby out of the crib to feed them or calm them and if it comes with any extras such as a rocking function. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to ensure that the crib you pick will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are less expensive than Moses Baskets, however they have great features, such as the breathable mesh, the see-through sides, reflux incline option and a height that can be adjusted. Our favorite is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which blends style and practicality to make the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colours and has smart oak legs, so it's sure to fit in your bedroom. Plus, 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 to allow you to hold your baby and sleep in a safe manner 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 operate initially.
The bedding you choose to use in a crib bed must fit properly and not leave any gaps that could serve as suffocation hazards. This is why a lot of cribs have mattresses that are fitted, but you can purchase suitable sheets at most retailers. It's a good idea avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they may be worn out and become deteriorated over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are lighter and more portable than Moses baskets, making them easier to move from room room or carry on holidays. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit into the carry bag, so that you can transport them on short trips.
Convenience
bedside cots cribs allow you to see your baby without worrying about them rolling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. But, it's important to note that 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.
Depending on which model you choose, the bedside crib may include features that make it more convenient. One of the best cribs in our MFM home test swivels, and is adjustable in the height so that it is easier to reach and pick your child up. This model also has a sidewall that slopes down, which one MFM home tester said gave an easy access to soothe their baby.
Some models have additional extras for example, the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or incline settings to help with reflux. These are helpful for children with an illness that triggers reflux, however your baby should be sleeping on a firm, flat mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
Consider how easy it is be to clean the model. Make sure the fabric is machine washable and has a waterproof protector to protect against leaky nappies or drips. Some cribs for bedside use an upholstered sheet, which makes it easier for you to wash and change it.
Consider the ease of assembly as well as the compactness when folded. Be sure to check if the bed is easy to put together and if it comes with a bag included to carry it on the road. Also, think about if it has extras like tilting the tummy or the option of turning it into a moses basket for older children - this can be useful for travelling.