Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A crib that sleeps in bed is a fantastic option if you want your baby to be close for a peaceful nighttime feeding. These co-sleepers offer a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets. They adhere to the strict guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
This crib is a favored among home testers since it is adjustable to match your bed's height and rotates a full 360 degrees for easy access. It is also easy to fold and comes with a travel bag.
Safety
Bedside cribs are an excellent way to keep baby close by at night without the risk of overheating or suffocating. 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 perfect for mothers recovering from a c-section. There are a variety of factors to consider prior to purchasing one.
When you're looking for a bedside crib make sure you're choosing a model that complies with 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 pose a risk of strangulation or entrapment. Check that the crib you pick meets the new 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 will not have drop-down sides. Instead, the majority of models have 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to lie next to your bed, but provide more of a protective barrier by sinking a bit lower than the mattress. All models on our list meet the new requirements. This includes the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go and the Chicco Lullago which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Make sure that the crib is securely affixed to your bed, and that it is securely fixed. This is particularly crucial if you intend to use it with a sidecar sleeper, 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 important to remember that a crib is only intended for sleep and should not be used with bedding or other items like blankets, toys, pillows, or stuffed animal. 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 furnishings.
Comfort
A bedside crib will allow you to keep your child in close proximity throughout the night, without the risk that they may be sharing a crib with another infant. This could increase the risk of SIDS. You can also reach over to soothe your baby without getting out of bed during the middle of the night. It's a safe and comfortable alternative to an infant Moses basket or infant bassinet for your newborn and babies as young as 6 months old.
The best models feature good airflow, with slats that are open and wide enough to let air flow. You can also move the door or window depending on your needs. It's easy to change the diaper of your baby and nurse them or monitor their sleep at the end of the night. Some models come with the swaddle bag to aid in creating a safe sleeping routine.
It should be compact and light when folded, so that it is easy to transport around the house. The mattress cover should be removable and washable, making it simple to clean. A pocket on one end is useful for storing spare nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs for bedside use a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Be sure that the mattress you purchase is specifically designed for your model and is flat, firm and breathable. Avoid using mattresses from second-hand stores as they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that has an adjustable height that it is in line with the height of your own bed. A bedside crib that can be adjusted in height could be a great help for you, particularly if you are recovering from a C Section.
Certain models come with useful extras, such as the tummy-tilt feature for reflux or a detachable moses bin which can later be used as a toddler playpen. Check if the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat for storage, or comes with bags. Look at the cost and find out what bedding comes with the crib. It is common to buy separate sheets for your child's cot at bedside.
Style
New moms appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them keep an eye on baby during feedings at night and diaper changes without getting out of the bed. They also help babies settle after c-section, or when recovering from other medical conditions such as colic or reflux.
Choosing the best bedside crib is contingent on your preferences and lifestyle. Take into consideration the safety features and whether you are able to lift your baby from the crib to feed them or soothe them. Also, consider if the crib has any extras, such as rocking features. Also, look at the size and the height of your bed, and ensure that the crib you pick can be comfortably.
Bedside cribs are cheaper than Moses Baskets, however they have excellent features, including air-tight mesh, see-through sides, reflux incline option and a height that can be adjusted. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favourite, as it combines both practicality and style into the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three different colors with stylish oak legs that fit into any bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to put together and fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs come with side panels that can be lowered down to let you touch your baby during the day, and for a safer co-sleeping environment, but then come back up at night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, comes with this feature, but one of our MFM home testers found it tricky to use at first.
Any bedding you use in a bedside crib must be fitted properly and not leave any gaps that could serve as suffocation dangers. That's why many cribs come with a fitted mattress, but sheets that are suitable for use at a variety of retailers. It is a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses, which may be worn out and degrade over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
bedside cot sale are also much lighter and more 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 compact enough to fit into a carry bag, so you can easily bring them with you on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs allow you to observe your baby without having to worry about them falling off the bed or suffocating. However, it's important to keep in mind that the official guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends you only co-sleep with your child for the first six months - with a separate bed in the same space, to lower the chance of SIDS.
Depending on the model that you pick, bedside cribs can include features that enhance their convenience. For example, one of the top-rated models in our MFM home tests can swivel and adjusts height, making it easy to reach in and pick up your child. The model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which one MFM home tester reported gave her "easy access" to comfort their baby.
Certain models include extra features such as a rocking feature (great for babies with a lot of fuss) or incline settings that help with reflux. These are useful to have if your baby suffers from a condition that causes reflux, but be aware that your baby should sleep on a flat, firm mattress to prevent suffocation or overheating.
Consider how easy bedside crib to cot will be to clean the model. Make sure the fabric can be washed by machine and if there's a waterproof mattress protector, which will protect from leaky nappies, baby sick or spills. Some cribs have 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 it is when folded away. Make sure it's simple to attach to your bed, and if it comes with a bag for travel. Also, think about if it comes with extras such as tilting the tummy or the option to turn it into moses baskets for older children. This can be useful for travelling.