Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
If you're looking to keep your baby close for the night without any fuss A crib that is positioned at the bedside is the ideal choice. They are a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, based on official safe sleeping guidance from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home test subjects love that this crib swivels 360deg for easy access. It also comes with an adjustable mattress to match your bed. It is also easy to fold and comes with a bag for travel.
Safety
Bedside cribs are an excellent way to keep your baby close throughout the night without putting them at risk of suffocation or overheating. They can be attached to your bed, which means you can reach out to help or feed your child during the middle of the night. They're also great for mothers recovering from having a c-section. There's plenty to consider before purchasing one.
If you're looking for a crib to put next to your bed, be sure that the crib you pick meets current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that were removed due to the risk of strangulation or entrapment posed by the gaps between the mattress, the sides and the crib. Check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest BS EN1130:2019 safety standard, which is scheduled to be launched in November 2020.
The biggest change in the new regulations is that bedside cribs can not have drop-down sides. Instead, most models feature half-height walls, which still allow your baby to lay next to your bed, but provide more of a protective barrier by sinking slightly lower than the mattress. All of the models we have listed are in compliance with these new standards. This includes the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go and the Chicco Lullago which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
It's also important to ensure that the crib you're considering purchasing is able to attach securely to your bed and is secured properly. This is particularly important if you plan 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's also important to keep in mind that the crib should only be used to sleep and should not be used with bedding or accessories like blankets, pillows, toys or animals that are stuffed. Official advice for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that babies should sleep in their own sleep space, in their own crib or cot and not on an adult bed or any other mattress or soft furnishing.
Comfort
A bedside crib allows you to keep your baby close at night without the threat of bed-sharing, which could increase the risk of SIDS. It also means that you can easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without needing to get up. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to the Moses basket or infant bassinet for babies and infants up to 6 months old.
The best models have slats that are wide and wide enough to allow air circulation. They also feature windows or doors that you can roll up or down depending on the need. It is simple to change the diaper of your baby or nurse them, or monitor their sleep at night. Some models come with an swaddle bag that can assist you in establishing a secure sleeping routine.
It should be small and light when folded, so that it is easy to transport around the house. It is also easy to clean, and come with a the option of removing and washing the mattress cover. A pocket on one end is useful for storing spare nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bedside include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Make sure the mattress is firm, flat and airy. Avoid using mattresses from second-hand stores because they can increase the risk of SIDS.
Look for a crib with an adjustable height so that it is in line with the height of your bed. A bedside crib that is adjustable in height could 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 the ability to detach to make a moses' basket and later a toddler playpen. Other extras to consider are whether the crib rock and folds down so that it can lie flat for storage, or comes with a bag for travel. Look at the cost and find out what bedding is included in the crib. It is often necessary to buy separate sheets for your child's cot at bedside.
Style
New moms are enthralled by the convenience of bedside cribs that allow them to keep an eye on baby during night feedings and nappy changes without getting out of the bed. They can also be useful in helping babies recover from C-section or other medical condition such as colic or reflux.
The ideal bedside crib will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. In addition to the obvious safety features, consider whether you want to be capable of lifting your baby out of the crib to feed them or soothe them and if it comes with additional features like the ability to rock. Examine the height and size of your bed to make sure that the crib you select will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs tend to be more affordable than Moses baskets however don't be deceived - they're still packed with fantastic features like the breathable mesh and clear sides, reflux incline options and a height that can be adjusted. Our top pick is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which combines style with practicality to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colours and comes with stylish oak legs, which means it's sure to fit in your bedroom. It's also simple to put together, fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to grandparents.
Some cribs feature side panels that can be lowered during the day to allow you to touch 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, although one of our MFM home testers had difficulty getting it to operate initially.
You must make sure that the bedding you choose for a crib next to a bed is properly fitted. There should not be gaps or other openings which could cause an air suffocation. Most cribs are equipped with a mattress. However, you can find sheets that fit in most retailers. Avoid mattresses from secondhand stores as they can become worn out and deteriorate with time increasing the chance of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are also much lighter and more portable than Moses baskets which makes them much easier to move from room room or carry when you go on vacation. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit into the carry bag, so that you can easily transport them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without worrying about them falling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. It is important to remember that the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other official sleep guidelines suggest that you only sleep with them for the first six months and then have an additional mattress in the same room to reduce the chance of SIDS.
Based on the model you select, bedside cribs could feature features that increase their ease of use. One of the best cribs in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in height to make it easier to reach and pick your child up. This model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which one MFM home tester described as giving an easy access to soothe their infant.
Some models have additional extras, such as the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt settings to aid in reflux. travel cot bedside crib are useful if your child has a condition that triggers reflux, however your baby should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Consider how easy it will be to clean the model. Find out if the fabric is machine washable and if it comes with a mattress protector that is waterproof that protects you from leaky nappies, baby sick or dribbles. Some cribs come with fitted sheets that make it easier to wash and change.
Think about the ease of assembly and compactness when folded. Be sure to check if the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with an included bag to travel with. Lastly, consider if it comes with extras such as tilting your tummy or the option of turning it into a moses basket for older children. This is a great option for traveling.