10 Tell-Tale Signals You Should Know To Know Before You Buy Bedside Crib Vs Cot
Bedside Crib Vs Cot
A bedside crib (also known as co-sleeper) lets your baby rest close to you during the night. However, it's important to follow official safe sleeping guidelines from the NHS and Lullaby Trust.
Our mum testers love the SnuzPod's breastfeeding-friendly drop side, 30-second open and fold mechanism and reflux incline function. Plus, its slim frame makes it easy to move from room to room.
Safety
Many new mums are looking for the comfort of their baby whilst they sleep, and bedside cribs can be a safe option for families who are embracing co-sleeping. However, NHS Safe Sleep advice suggests parents have a separate bed for their infant and avoid sharing a bed to reduce the risk of overheating, suffocation and rollovers.
When you are choosing a crib for your bed it is essential to make sure that the crib is compliant with European safety standards and conforms to Lullaby Trust codes for safe sleep, to ensure your child is sleeping in a safe and secure environment. Bedside cribs that have adjustable height settings can be set to match to the bed frame of the parent which reduces the chance of gaps where babies may be trapped. The cribs are equipped with a flat, firm mattress that is designed to encourage healthy sleep habits.
The majority of cribs with a bedside feature an adjustable panel that can be raised to let you securely monitor your baby during the night. This means you can easily soothe them, feed them and monitor them without needing to get out of bed. This can be especially helpful for mothers recovering from c-section births, or those who are unable to move. Certain models, like the SnuzPod4, come with a reflux incline feature for babies suffering from reflux or digestive issues.
A lowered panel can also reduce the risks of your baby rolling off the crib's edge, and many have mesh sides to prevent stray duvets or pillows from falling in. This is crucial to reduce the chance of SIDS because babies who have their backs rolled off are more at risk of suffocation.
Be sure to keep soft toys and dummies away as they can be risky for suffocation. A mattress that is breathable for the crib and regular checks for gaps or loose bedding are vital to keep your baby secure. Once your baby is able to sit up or stand (typically at around 6 months) they will require a cot or other sleeping arrangement that is suitable. If you are concerned about this transition, speak to your GP or a health professional.
Comfort
The best bedside cribs offer a safe and comfortable space for your baby to sleep. Built to sit beside your bed, they will allow you to tend to your infant without getting out of bed and will also give you the opportunity to bond with your infant during those crucial early months. This feeling of security will help you establish a positive nighttime routine and improve the quality of sleep for your baby.
It is recommended to keep your baby in a crib at night until they reach the age of six months old or are able to get up and then you should switch to a traditional cot. The bedside crib will usually be suitable for your child until this age, but it is important to check the specific guidelines for the product.
When choosing a bedside cot make sure it is in compliance with EN 1130 safety standards. It should also be compatible with your bed (most are attached to traditional bed frames, however you should always double check the exact dimensions). It is also important to ensure that your chosen crib has a firm flat mattress that is breathable - this is essential for the health of your baby.
The Chicco Next2me side sleeper is a favorite among our mum testers. It comes with a height-adjustable base and can either be used as a stand-alone crib or connected to the bed. This crib is lightweight, easy to assemble and offers excellent value for price. Silvercross Voyager is another of our favourites. Our testers love it for its versatility, comfortable mattresses and the reflux incline feature.
Space
A bedside crib is an accessory that attaches to the bed's side. This lets you keep your baby close throughout the night without the danger of co-sleeping, which isn't recommended by the NHS or The Lullaby Trust. large bedside cot 've seen a rise in popularity recently with moms seeking a way to bond with their infant while remaining safe.
They usually come with an incline panel that allows you to see and touch your baby, as well as some that allow you to keep the panel down at night to allow for the convenience of feeding and monitoring your baby in a relaxed manner. Some models also come with an incline feature for reflux, which was appreciated by many of our testers for reducing discomfort and aiding digestion for babies suffering from reflux or wind.
Some cribs with adjustable height settings, enabling you to position them on the same level as your mattress, so there's no gap that could let your baby climb or slip out. This is especially useful for those recovering after C-sections as it can be difficult for them to get in and out of the bed.
The lowered sides also offer some privacy, which makes them perfect for new parents who are worried about sharing a space with their infant. It is crucial to remember that even if you choose to sleep with your baby in a crib, or cot near your bed, it is important to follow the official guidelines for safe sleeping and avoid sharing your bed with anyone else.
It is also important to make sure your bedside crib is compatible with your existing bed frame before buying - some bedsteads clip onto bed frames while others are more suitable for divan beds. Don't forget to buy a mattress that is suitable for your crib. These are usually sold separately from the crib and must conform to the latest BS EN1130 safety standards.
Some bedside cribs also convert into toddler beds, which can add to the life of parents who don't want to invest in an additional cot for their older child. The SnuzPod4 is one such model, featuring a sleek, slim frame that fits neatly into the corner of your bedroom and gives plenty of room for your little one to sleep comfortably. It is also easy to put together and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Convenience
One of the most appealing aspects about a bedside crib is that it's simple to lift your baby in and out of bed for nighttime feeds, cuddles and soothing back to sleep. Many cribs have an upper panel that slides down, allowing you to touch and talk to your child without having to wake them up completely or disrupt their sleep. There are cribs that keep the panel down all the time - this is great for new parents who may be recovering from a C-section and want to keep their baby close.
Some cribs have tilting features that may help with reflux or colic. It is important to remember that tilting the crib should only be done by parents who are aware of their baby's medical needs and the history.
Another thing to consider is how easy the crib is to clean, and whether it's machine washable or will you have to hand wash it manually. Some cribs have waterproof covers that protect against leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. Some cribs are equipped with a storage bag that makes them perfect for traveling if you have to take your baby along.
It's also worth considering the weight of the crib and whether it's easy to move from room room. Jasmine the 2021 Mother & Baby Awards mum tester, described the red Kite Cozysleep with the crib as "just right size and light enough to easily move throughout your home." It folds flat and comes with a bag to take on trips to the grandparents.
If you're thinking about buying a crib that is bedside, we recommend you read our complete reviews and ratings of the top ones on the market, to ensure you purchase the best model for your baby and your lifestyle. Be aware that even though the crib may look beautiful and sophisticated, it's important to remember that your newborn will quickly outgrow its tiny size. You'll need to get your baby into a cot before they move out of the crib.