Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?

A bedside crib co sleeper is a fantastic option when you want your baby close by for fuss-free evening feeding. Co-sleepers are a safe 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 to 360 degrees to make it easy to access. Additionally, it folds easily and comes with a travel bag for trips away from home.

Safety

Bedside cribs let you keep your baby close to you at night without the risk of suffocation. They attach to the side of your bed, so you can easily reach out to feed or soothe your infant during the night, and they're perfect for mothers recovering from a c-section. There are a lot of things to consider prior to purchasing one.

When choosing an appropriate crib to be placed next to your bed, be sure that the model you choose conforms to current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that have been recalled due to the fact that they let children slide through gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib, or they could pose a risk of strangulation and entrapment. Check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement, which was introduced in November 2020.

The new rules prohibit cribs for bedside use from having sides that completely fall down. Instead, most models feature half-height walls, which still allow your baby to lay next to your bed, but provide more of a protective barrier by sinking slightly lower than your mattress. All of the models we have listed conform to these new requirements and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago both of which were shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.

Check that the crib is securely attached to your bed and that it is correctly secured. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the crib with a sidecar sleep 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 also important to remember that the crib should only be used for sleeping and should never be used with any bedding or accessories like blankets, pillows, toys, or animals that are stuffed. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP, have issued official safe sleep guidelines which state that infants should sleep in their crib or cot and not on a bed that is used by an adult or any other type of soft furnishings.

Comfort

A bedside cots crib allows you to keep your baby close at night without the threat of bed-sharing which can increase the risk of SIDS. You can also reach over to soothe your baby without having to get out of bed during the middle of the night. It's a great alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that is safe, convenient, and comfortable for your new baby and infants up to 6 months of age.

The most effective models have good airflow, with slats that are open and wide enough to allow air flow. You can also roll up and down the window or door as you need. This makes it simple to change your baby's diapers, nurse him or monitor them throughout the night. Some models even come with the swaddle sack, which can help you to have a secure sleep routine.

It should be small and light when folded, so that it is easy to carry around the house. The mattress cover should be able to be removed and washable, making it simple to clean. A pocket on one end is handy to store nappies or baby clothes.

Some cribs with a bedside include a mattress, while others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure that the mattress is flat, firm, and airy. Avoid using mattresses from second-hand stores because they can increase the risk of SIDS.

Find the right crib that can be adjusted to the height of your bed. A bedside crib that can be adjusted in height could be a great help to you, particularly if you recovering from a C-section.

Some models include useful extras, such as an adjustable tummy tilt for reflux or a detachable moses' basket that can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Other features to consider include whether the crib rocks, folds down to lie flat for storage or comes with a travel bag. Find out the price and what bedding comes with the crib. It is often necessary to purchase separate sheets for your child's bedside cot.

Style

Bedside cribs are a great alternative for mothers who are just starting out. They allow mothers to monitor their baby at night and during diaper changes, without getting out of the bed. They are also a great way to help babies settle after a c-section or after recovering from other medical conditions, such as reflux or colic.

Choosing the right bedside crib for your child is based on your requirements and lifestyle. Take into consideration the safety features and whether you will be able take your baby out of the crib to feed them or calm them. Also, consider whether the crib comes with extras, such as rocking features. Also, consider the size and the height of your bed and check that any crib you select will be able to fit comfortably.

Bedside cribs are typically cheaper than Moses baskets however don't be deceived they're packed with fantastic features like the breathable mesh and clear sides, reflux incline options and a height that can be adjusted. Our favourite is the Tutti Bambini CoZee, which blends style and practicality to make the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors and has smart oak legs, so it's sure to fit in your bedroom. Additionally, it's easy to assemble and fold and comes with a handy travel bag for trips to the grandparents.

Some cribs have side panels that can be removed during the day, allowing the baby to be held and sleep safely however, they are raised 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.

Any bedding you use in a bedside crib should be a good fit and must not leave any gaps that could serve as suffocation dangers. This is the reason that many cribs have a fitted mattress, but you can find suitable sheets at most stores. Avoid second-hand mattresses as they can become worn out and deteriorate with time, increasing the risk of SIDS.

Bedside cribs are lighter and more portable than Moses baskets which makes them easy to move from room to room or take with you on holidays. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit into a carry bag so that you can easily take them on short trips.

Convenience

Bedside cribs allow you to see your baby without having to worry about them falling off the mattress or suffocating. It's important to remember that the official safe sleep guidance 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 chance of SIDS.

The model you choose the bedside crib could come with features that make it more comfortable. For instance, one of the top-rated models we tested in our MFM home tests swivels and adjusts height, making it easy for you to reach into the crib and pick up your child. The model also has a sidewall with a dip down, which one MFM home tester said gave her "easy access" to soothe their baby.

Some models come with extras like a rocking function (great for fussy babies) or incline settings to help with reflux. These are useful if your child has a condition which triggers reflux, however your newborn should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to prevent suffocation and overheating.

When selecting a fabric be aware of how easy it will be to clean. Make sure the fabric is machine washable and comes with a waterproof protector to keep away leaky nappies and dribbles. Some cribs for bedside use a fitted sheet that makes it easier for you to change it and wash it.

Consider the ease of assembly and the compactness when folded. Make sure it's easy to connect to your bed, and if it has a bag to use for travel bedside crib. Consider if the product has extras such as a tummy-tilt or the possibility of converting it into a Moses basket for older children. This is a great feature when traveling.