Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib with a co-sleeper is a fantastic option when you want your baby close by for fuss-free evening feeding. They are a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, following the guidelines for safe sleep issued by the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home testers love the fact that this crib rotates 360deg to make it easy to access and has an adjustable mattress height to match your bed. what is it worth is easy to fold and comes with a carry-on bag for traveling.
Safety
Bedside cribs are a great option to keep your baby close at night without the risk of suffocation or overheating. They are attached to the side of your bed so that you can easily reach out to soothe or feed your baby in the middle of the night. They're suitable for mothers who are recovering from the c-section. There's plenty to think about before purchasing one.
When you're looking for a bedside crib, make sure you're choosing a model that complies with current safety standards. Many older cribs were removed due to the risk of strangulation, or entrapment, posed by the gaps between the mattress and the sides as well as the crib. Check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November of this year.
The most significant change to the new rules is that bedside cribs can no longer have completely drop-down sides. Instead, most models feature 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to lay close to your bed, but offer a more secure barrier by sinking a little lower than your 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
It's also worth checking if the crib you're considering is able to attach securely to your bed and is attached properly. This is especially 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 crucial to remember that a crib is only intended for sleep and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or accessories such as toys, blankets, pillows or stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued an official safe sleep advice that states that babies should sleep only in their cribs or cots and not on a bed that is used by an adult or any other type or soft furnishings.
Comfort
bedside cot 6 months plus for your bed lets you keep your baby close throughout the night, without the danger of bed-sharing which can increase the risk of SIDS. It also allows you to easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without having to get up. It's a great alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that's safe, easy to use, and comfortable for your newborn baby and babies until 6 months of age.
The best models feature excellent breathability with slats open and wide enough to allow air flow. You can also roll up and down the door or window depending on your needs. This makes it simple to change your baby's diapers, nurse him, or check on them throughout the night. Some models also include a swaddle sack to help you sleep in a safe routine.
You want a mattress that is lightweight and compact when folded, making it easy to move around the house or take away with you. The mattress cover must be removable and washable, making it simple to clean. A pocket on one side is useful for storing spare nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bedside include a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure the mattress is designed for your specific model and is flat, firm and airy. Avoid second-hand mattresses since they can increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that is adjusted to fit the height of your bed. Particularly if you're recovering from C-sections A bedside crib that has an adjustable height gives you a greater chances of getting in and out of bed easily especially in the initial weeks when you're still recovering.
Some models have extra features that could be beneficial like tilting the tummy to help with reflux, or detach to transform into a moses basket and later a toddler playpen. Other things to consider are whether the crib rock or folds down to lay flat for storage, or comes with a bag for travel. Check the price and see what bedding is included in the crib. It is common to purchase separate sheets for your child's cot at bedside.
Style
New mums appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that allow them to monitor baby during night feedings and nappy changes without getting out of bed. They are also a great way to help babies settle after a c-section or in the aftermath of other medical conditions such as colic or reflux.
The best crib for you depends on your requirements and your lifestyle. Apart from the obvious safety features, consider whether you want to be able to get your baby out of the crib to feed them or soothe them and if it includes any additional features, such as rocking functions. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to ensure that the crib you pick will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are more affordable than Moses Baskets, however they still 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 preferred choice, as it blends both practicality and style into the perfect co-sleeper. It comes in three colors and has smart oak legs, which means it's sure to fit in your bedroom. Plus, it's easy to assemble and fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be removed during the day to allow you to hold your baby and sleep in a safe manner, but are raised again at the night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, comes with this feature, although one of our MFM home testers had difficulty getting it to operate initially.
It is essential to make sure that the bedding you choose for a crib next to a bedside is fitted properly. There shouldn't be gaps or other gaps, which could cause suffocation. Many cribs are fitted with a mattress. However, you can find sheets that fit in most retailers. It's a good idea to avoid second-hand mattresses, which are prone to wear and deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs also are much smaller and lighter than Moses baskets. This makes them easier to transport from room to rooms, or to take when you go on trips on. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit into bags so that you can easily take them on short journeys.
Convenience
Bedside cribs allow you to look at your baby without worrying about them rolling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. But, it's important to keep in mind that the official safety guidelines for 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 reduce the risk of SIDS.
Based on the model you pick, bedside cribs can have features that add to their ease of use. One of the cribs that received the highest ratings in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in the height so that it is easier for you reach in and pick your child up. The model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which one MFM home tester reported gave her "easy access" to soothe their infant.
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 useful to have if your baby suffers from a condition that causes reflux. However, remember that your newborn should sleep on a flat, firm mattress to prevent suffocation or overheating.
When selecting a model take into consideration how easy it is to clean. Make sure the fabric is machine washable, and if it comes with a waterproof protector to protect against leaky nappies or dribbles. Some cribs with a bedside have a fitted sheet that allows you to wash and change it.
Other features to consider include how easy it is to build and how compact it is when folded away. Make sure it's easy to connect to your bed and whether it has a bag to use for travelling. Lastly, consider if it has extras like tilting the tummy or the option to turn it into a moses basket for older babies - this is a great option for traveling.