Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A crib that sleeps in bed is a great option if you want your baby to be close for a peaceful evening feeding. They are a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, and are in line with the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
This crib is a favorite among home testers since it is adjustable to match your bed's height and rotates to 360 degrees for easy access. It is easy to fold and comes with a travel bag.
Safety
Bedside cribs allow you to keep your baby close during the night without fear of suffocation. They can be attached to your bed, so you can reach out to soothe or feed your child during the middle of the night. They are also ideal for mothers recovering from having a c-section. There are many things to consider before investing in one.
When choosing a crib to place beside your bed, make sure that the crib you pick meets current safety standards. A number of cribs from the past have been recalled because they let children 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 is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement that was released in November of 2020.
The most significant change to the new regulations is that bedside cribs will no longer have completely drop-down sides. Most models have 'half height' walls, which still allow your child to lay on your bed, but offer a more secure protection as they sink below your mattress. All of the models in our list conform to these new requirements, including the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago that were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
It's also worth checking that the crib you're considering purchasing is secure enough to be attached to your bed and is anchored correctly. This is particularly important if you plan to use it with a sleeper that is a sidecar, such as the free-standing 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 meant for sleeping, and should not be used with bedding or accessories such as toys, blankets, pillows, or stuffed animal. Official safe sleep advice from The Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that babies should only rest in their own bed space, in their own 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 safe throughout the 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 soothe your baby without having to get out of bed during the middle of the night. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to a Moses basket or baby bassinet that is suitable for infants and babies as young as 6 months old.
The most effective models have good breathability with slats wide enough and open enough to allow air flow. You can also move the door or window according to your needs. This makes it easy to nurse, change your baby or check on them throughout the night. Some models also come with an swaddle bag to assist you sleep in a safe routine.
It should be compact and light when folded, so that it is easy to transport around the house. It is also easy to clean, with a a removable and washable mattress cover. The pocket at one end can be used to store spare baby clothes and nappies.
Some bedside cribs come with mattresses, while others need to purchase separately. Be sure the mattress is flat, firm and airy. Avoid second-hand mattresses since they increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that is adjusted to fit the bed's height. A bedside crib that can be adjusted in height can be extremely beneficial for you, particularly if you recovering from a C-section.
Some models have extra features that could be beneficial, such as tilting the tummy to help with reflux, or the ability to detach to become a moses basket, and later a toddler playpen. Other things to consider are whether the crib rocks, folds down to lie flat for storage, or comes with a bag for travel. It's also worth checking the cost of the crib and the bedding included - it's usually necessary to buy separate sheets for your baby's bedside crib.
Style
New moms are enthralled by the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside, which allow them to monitor their baby during night feeds and diaper changes without getting out of bed. They're also great for helping babies settle after a csection or in the aftermath of other medical conditions, such as reflux or colic.
The best bedside crib depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Be aware of safety features and if you are able to lift your baby from the crib to feed them or soothe them. Also, make sure to check whether the crib comes with extras, such as rocking features. Also, consider the size and height of your bed and make sure that the crib you pick will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are cheaper than Moses Baskets, but they do have some amazing features, like breathable mesh and see through sides, incline options for reflux and a height that can be adjusted. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favorite, since it combines both style and practicality into the perfect co-sleeper. It comes in three colors and comes with stylish oak legs, so it's perfect for your bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to assemble and fold and comes with a handy travel bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
bedside cot newborn have side panels that can be removed in the daytime to allow you to touch your baby and co-sleep safely however, they are raised at the night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for example, but one of our MFM Home test participants found it difficult to use initially.
You should make sure that the bedding you use to make a crib bed is properly fitted. There shouldn't be gaps or other gaps, which could lead to suffocation. A majority of cribs come with a mattress. However, you can find sheets that are suitable for most stores. It is a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses, which can be worn down and become deteriorated over time, posing a risk of increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are also smaller and lighter than Moses baskets. This makes them much easier to transport from room to space, or take on vacation. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit into a carry bag, so you can easily bring them to short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs allow you to see your baby without worrying about them rolling off the bed or suffocating. It's 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 six months and then have a separate mattress in the same space to minimize the chance of SIDS.
Depending on the model you pick, bedside cribs can have features that add to their convenience. One of the top-rated cribs in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in the height to make it easier for you reach in and pick up your child. This model also has a sidewall that slopes down, which one MFM home tester reported gave an easy access to comfort their baby.
Certain models come with additional features, such as a rocking function (useful for babies who are fussy) or incline settings to help with reflux. These are helpful if your child has an illness that causes reflux, but your newborn should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to avoid suffocation or overheating.
When choosing a model take into consideration how easy it is to clean. Check whether the fabric can be machine washed and if it comes with a mattress protector that is waterproof that protects you from leaky nappies, infant sick or dribbles. Some cribs come with fitted sheets that make it easier to wash and change.
Other things to consider are the ease with which it can build and how compact when folded away. Make sure the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with a bag included to travel with. Take note of additional features, such as a tummy tilt or the ability to convert it into an oversized Moses basket for older children. This can be useful when travelling.