Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib co sleeper is a great option if you want your baby close by for fuss-free nighttime feeding. Co-sleepers are a safe alternative to traditional Moses' baskets. They are based on strict guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
This crib is a favorite among home testers because it can be adjusted to fit the bed's height, and it swivels a full 360 degrees to make it easy to access. It is also easy to fold and comes with a carry-on bag for traveling.
Safety
Bedside cribs allow you to keep your baby close to you at night without the risk of being suffocated. They attach to your bed, so you can reach out and soothe or feed your child during the middle of the night. They're also great for mothers who are recovering from an c-section. There are a variety of factors to think about before purchasing one.
If you're shopping for a bedside crib ensure you're buying an item that is in line with current safety standards. Many older cribs were recalled because they allow babies to slide through gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib, or they could pose a risk of strangulation or entrapment. Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement which was introduced in November of this year.
The new regulations prohibit cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely fall down. Instead, the majority of models have half-height walls, which still allow your baby to lay close to your bed, but provide a more protective barrier by sinking slightly lower than your mattress. All of the models in our list comply with these new requirements which includes the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Check that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is correctly anchored. This is particularly crucial if you intend to use it with a sidecar sleeper, such as the freestanding 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 remember, too, that a crib is designed for sleeping and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or other accessories like pillows, blankets, toys, or stuffed animal. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP, have issued official safe sleep advice that states that infants should sleep in their cribs or cots and not on an adult's bed, or any other kind of soft furnishings.
Comfort
A crib that is placed near your bed will allow you to keep your child in close proximity during the night, without having to take the danger that they might be shared with other babies. This could increase the chance of SIDS. It also means that you can easily reach over and soothe your baby during the middle of the night without having to get up. It's a safe, practical and comfortable alternative to the Moses basket or baby bassinet that is suitable for infants and babies as young as 6 months old.
The most effective models have excellent breathability, with slats that are wide enough to allow airflow. They also have a door and/or window that can be rolled up or down as needed. It's easy to change your baby's diaper, nurse them, or examine their sleep at night. Some models even come with the swaddle sack, which can help you with a safe sleep routine.
You want a mattress that is light and compact when folded making it easy to move around the house or take away with you. The mattress cover should be able to be removed and washable, making it easy to clean. A pocket on the other side is useful to store nappies or baby clothes.
Some cribs for bedside use a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Be sure that the mattress you purchase is designed for your specific model and is firm, flat and airy. Avoid second-hand mattresses since they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that has an adjustable height so that it matches the height of your bed. A bedside crib that can be adjusted in height could be extremely beneficial to you, especially if you recovering from a C-section.
Certain models come with additional features that could be beneficial like tilting the tummy to help with reflux, or the ability to detach to become a moses basket, and later a toddler playpen. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, can be folded flat for storage, or comes with a bag. Find out 4-in-1 bedside crib and what bedding comes with the crib. It is usually necessary to buy separate sheets for your child's cot bed.
Style
Bedside cribs are a fantastic option for new mums. They allow them to monitor their infant at night and during diaper changes, without getting out of their bed. They are also a great way to help babies settle after a csection or when recovering from other medical conditions like reflux or colic.
The ideal bedside crib will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Consider the safety features and whether you can lift your baby from the crib to feed or soothe them. Also, consider whether the crib is equipped with additional features, like a rocking feature. Also, consider the size and the height of your bed and check that any crib you select will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are generally cheaper than Moses baskets however don't be deceived they're still loaded with amazing features, including the breathable mesh and clear sides, incline options for reflux and a height that can be adjusted. Our top pick is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which is stylish and practical to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors with stylish oak legs to be a perfect fit in any bedroom. It's also easy to assemble and fold, and comes with a handy carry bag for trips to grandparent's.
Some cribs come with side panels that can be lowered down to allow you to touch your baby during the day and for safer co-sleeping, but then appear again at night. The Arm's Reach Clear-Vue Co-Sleeper, for instance, has this feature, though one of our MFM home testers found it tricky to use at first.
You should ensure that the bedding you use to make a crib bed is properly fitted. There should be no gaps or other openings, which could lead to suffocation. That's why many cribs have an adjustable mattress, however sheets that are suitable for use at a variety of retailers. Avoid mattresses from secondhand stores because they will wear out and degrade with time and increase the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are also much more lightweight and portable than Moses baskets which makes them easy to move from room to room or to take along on holidays. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit in bags to allow you to take them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs allow you to observe your baby without having to worry about them rolling off the bed or suffocating. 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 during the first six months - with an additional bed in the same room to lower the risk of SIDS.
Based on the model you pick, bedside cribs can feature features that increase their convenience. For example, one of the top-rated models from our MFM home tests swivels and adjusts its height to make it easy to reach in and pick up your little one. The model also has a sidewall that dips down, which one MFM home tester described as giving an easy access to comfort their infant.
Some models have extra features such as a rocking feature (great for babies who are fussy), or incline settings that aid with reflux. These are helpful for children with an illness that triggers reflux, however your infant should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to prevent suffocation and overheating.
Consider how easy it will be to clean the model. Make sure the fabric can be machine washed and if it has a mattress protector that is waterproof that protects you from leaky nappies, infant sick or spills. Some cribs with a bedside have a fitted sheet, which allows you to wash and change it.
Take into consideration the ease of assembly and compactness when folded. Make sure it's simple to attach to your bed and if it has a bag to use to take it with you on your travels. Consider if the product has additional features like a tummy-tilt or the possibility of converting it into a Moses basket for older children. This can be useful when travelling.