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. They're a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets, based on official safe sleeping guidance from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home testers love the fact that this crib swivels 360deg for easy access. It also features an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. It folds up easily and comes with a travel bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs let you keep your baby close at night without the risk of suffocation. They are attached to the sides of your bed so that you can easily reach out to feed or soothe your infant in the middle of the night. They're also ideal for mums recovering from the c-section. There are many things to consider before investing in one.
When shopping for a bedside crib make sure you're looking at one that meets current safety standards. Many older cribs have been recalled due to the fact that they permit children to fall through the gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they can pose a danger of strangulation or entrapment. Make sure that the crib you choose meets the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement that was released in November of 2020.
The new regulations prohibit bedside cribs from having sides that completely drop down. Most cribs have "half height walls that allow your child to lie on your bed, but also offer a more secure barrier as they sink below your mattress. All of the models we have listed comply with these new requirements and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Verify that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is securely secured. This is especially important if you intend 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&Baby Awards.
It's also important to keep in mind that a crib should only be used for sleeping purposes and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or accessories such as pillows, blankets toys, or animals that are stuffed. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP have issued a 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 of soft furnishings.
Comfort
A bedside crib will allow you to keep your child safe throughout the night, without the possibility that they could be shared with other babies. This can increase the risk of SIDS. It also allows you to easily reach out and comfort your baby in the middle of the night without needing to get up. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to an infant Moses basket or infant bassinet for babies and babies up to 6 months old.
The most effective models come with slats that are wide and wide enough to allow for airflow. They also come with a door and/or window that can be folded up or down depending on the need. It is simple to change your baby's diaper and nurse them or examine them at night. Some models even come with an swaddle bag to assist you sleep in a safe 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. The pocket at the other end can be used to store extra nappies and baby clothes.
Some cribs with a bedside include mattresses, whereas others require you to purchase a mattress separately. Make sure that the mattress is firm, flat and breathable. Avoid second-hand mattresses as they could increase the risk of SIDS.
Find the right crib that can be adjusted to match the height of your bed. Particularly if you're recovering from C-sections, a bedside crib that has an adjustable height can give you a greater chances of getting in and out of bed easily, especially during the early days of recovering.
Certain models come with additional features that could be beneficial like tilting the tummy to help with reflux, or the ability to detach to make a moses' basket, and later a toddler playpen. Other extras to consider are whether the crib is rocking, folds down to lie flat for storage, or comes with a travel bag. It's also worth checking how much the model costs and what bedding is included. It's not uncommon to purchase separate sheets for your baby's crib.
Style
New mums love the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them monitor their baby during feedings at night and changing nappy without getting out of the bed. They also help babies settle after c-section, or after recovering from other medical conditions like colic or reflux.
Choosing the best bedside crib for you depends on your requirements and your lifestyle. Be aware of safety features and if you will be able remove your baby from the crib in order to feed or calm them. Also, make sure to check whether the crib is equipped with extras, such as rocking features. Also, consider the size and the height of your bed, and check that any crib you pick can be comfortably.
Bedside cribs tend to be cheaper than Moses baskets however don't be deceived they're packed with fantastic features like breathable mesh and see-through sides, as well as reflux incline options and a height that can be adjusted. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favorite, since it combines both practicality and style into the perfect co-sleeper. It comes in three colours with stylish oak legs that make it a great fit for any bedroom. Plus, it's easy to put together and fold, and comes with a convenient travel bag for trips to the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be lowered in the daytime to allow you to hold your baby and sleep safely and then raised at night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for instance, however one of our MFM Home test participants found it difficult to use at first.
The bedding you choose to use in a crib bed must be fitted properly and not leave any gaps that could be used as suffocation hazards. This is the reason that many cribs have an adjustable mattress, however you can purchase suitable sheets at most retailers. Avoid second-hand mattresses because they will wear out and deteriorate with time, increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs also are much lighter and more portable than Moses baskets. This makes them easier to transport from room to space, or take on vacation. The most effective bedside cribs are small enough to fit into the carry bag, meaning they are easy to take to short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you see your baby without worrying about them rolling off the mattress or becoming suffocated. However, it's important to keep in mind that the official guidelines for safe 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 space, to lower the risk of SIDS.
Based on the model you choose, bedside cribs may include features that enhance their ease of use. For instance one of the top-rated models in our MFM home tests is swivels and adjusts height so it's easy for you to reach into the crib and pick up your child. This model also has a sidewall that dips down, which an MFM home tester said gave her 'easy access' to comfort their infant.
Certain models come with additional features for example, a rocking feature (useful for fussy babies) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These may be handy to use if your baby is suffering from a condition that causes reflux, but be aware that your baby should rest on a flat, firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
When selecting a fabric be aware of how easy it will be to clean. Check if the fabric is machine washable and if it comes with a waterproof protector to guard against leaky nappies or drips. Some cribs come with a fitted sheet that makes it easier to wash and change.
Think about the ease of assembly and compactness when folded. Consider whether it is simple to attach to your bed, and if it has a bag to use for travel. Also, think about if it has additional features like a tummy tilt or the option to turn it into a moses basket for older children. This can be useful for travelling.