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 close by for fuss-free evening feeding. They're a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets, following official safe sleeping guidance from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home test subjects love that the crib can rotate 360 degrees for easy access. It also comes with an adjustable mattress to fit your bed. Plus, it folds easily and comes with a travel bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs are an excellent way to keep baby close by during the night without risking suffocation or overheating. They are attached to the side of your bed so you can easily reach out to soothe or feed your infant during the night, and they're also ideal for mums recovering from an op. There are many things to think about before purchasing one.
If you're choosing a crib to put next to your bed, make sure that the crib you select meets current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that were recalled due to the risk of strangulation, or entrapment, posed by the gaps between the mattress as well as the sides of 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 new rules prohibit cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely drop down. Instead, many models come with 'half-height' walls that still allow your baby to lay next to your bed, but provide more of a protective barrier by sinking a little lower than your mattress. All of the models in our list conform to these new requirements and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago that were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards in 2017.
It's also worth checking if the crib you're considering purchasing is capable of being securely attached to your bed and is anchored properly. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the crib with a sidecar sleep system, such as the 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 designed for sleeping and is not meant to be used with bedding or other items like pillows, blankets, toys, or stuffed animal. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued an official safe sleep advice that states that infants should sleep in their cribs or cots and not on a bed that is used by an adult or any other type or soft furniture.
Comfort
A crib that is placed near your bed allows you to keep your baby close at night without the threat of bed-sharing, which can increase the chance of SIDS. You can also reach out to soothe your baby without getting out of bed during the middle of the night. It's an alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that's safe, convenient, and comfortable for your new baby and babies up until 6 months old.
bedside rocking crib have slats that are wide and wide enough to allow airflow. You can also roll up and down the window or door depending on your needs. It is simple to change the diaper of your baby or nurse them, or examine them at the end of the night. Some models also include the swaddle sack, which can help you sleep in a safe routine.
It should be small and light when folded, so that it is easy to transport around the home. The mattress cover should be removable and washable, making it easy to clean. A pocket on one end can be useful for storing spare nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bed come with a mattress, while others have to buy separately. Ensure that the mattress is specifically designed for your model and is firm, flat and breathable. Avoid second-hand mattresses since they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that is adjusted to match the bed's height. Especially if you're recovering from a C-section, a bedside crib that has an adjustable height gives you a greater chance of getting in and out of bed quickly particularly in the early weeks of recovering.
Some models come with useful extras, such as a tummy-tilt for reflux or a detachable moses basket which can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Check if the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat for storage or comes with a bag. Look at the cost and find out what bedding is included with the crib. It is common to buy separate sheets for your child's cot at bedside.
Style
New mothers appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them keep an eye on baby during night feedings and changing nappy without getting out of the bed. They are also useful for helping babies recover from a c-section or other medical conditions like colic or reflux.
The ideal crib for your bed is contingent on your lifestyle and needs. Consider the safety features and if you are able to remove your baby from the crib in order to feed them or calm them. Also, make sure to check if the crib has any extras, such as rocking capabilities. Also, consider the size and height of your bed and check that any crib you choose will be able to fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are more affordable than Moses Baskets, however they still have excellent features, including breathable mesh and see through sides, reflux incline option and a height that can be adjusted. Our favorite is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which is stylish and practical to make the perfect sleeper. It's available in three different colors with stylish oak legs to make it a great fit for any bedroom. Additionally, Discover More to put together and fold and comes with a convenient travel bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be lowered during the day, allowing you to hold your baby and co-sleep safely, but are raised again at the 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 initially.
Any bedding you use in a crib bed must fit properly and not leave any gaps that could serve as suffocation dangers. This is the reason that many cribs have a fitted mattress, but sheets that are suitable for use at most retailers. Avoid mattresses from secondhand stores as they can become worn out and degrade with time, increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs also are much lighter and easier to transport than Moses baskets. This makes them easier to move from room rooms, or to take when you go on vacation. The best bedside cribs are compact enough to fit into a carry bag, so you can easily take them along for short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs allow you to observe your baby without having to worry about them falling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. However, it's important to note that official safety guidelines for sleep from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends that you only sleep in a bed with your baby for the first six months with a separate bed in the same room, to lower the risk of SIDS.
The model you choose the crib that you choose for your bed could include features that make it more convenient. One of the cribs that received the highest ratings in our MFM home test can swivel and is adjustable in the height so that it is easier for you reach in and pick your child up. The model also has a sidewall that slopes down, which one MFM home tester said gave an easy access to soothe their baby.
Certain models come with additional features like a rocking feature (useful for babies with a lot of fuss) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These are helpful for children with a condition which can cause reflux, however, your infant should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to prevent suffocation and overheating.
When choosing a model be aware of how easy it will be to clean. Find out if the fabric can be washed by machine and if it has a mattress protector with waterproof properties that protects you from leaky nappies, baby sick or spills. Some cribs with a bedside have a fitted sheet, which allows you to change and wash it.
Take into consideration the ease of assembly as well as the compactness when folded. Be sure to check if the bed is simple to attach and if there's a bag included to travel with. Additionally, take note of whether it has additional features like tilting your tummy or the option of turning it into a moses basket for older babies - this could be helpful for travel.