15 Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Benefits Everybody Must Know
Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib with a co-sleeper is a great option when you want your baby to be close for a peaceful nighttime feeding. These co-sleepers offer a safer alternative to traditional Moses baskets. They are based on the official guidelines for safe sleeping from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.
Home test subjects love that this crib rotates 360deg for easy access and has an adjustable mattress height to fit your bed. It folds up easily and comes with a carry-on bag for trips away from home.
Safety
Bedside cribs let you keep your baby close at night without the risk of being suffocated. They can be attached to the side of your bed so you can easily reach out to feed or soothe your child in the middle of the night, and they're also ideal for mums recovering from the c-section. There's plenty to consider before you invest in one.
If you are searching for a crib to put next to your bed, make sure that the model you choose conforms to current safety standards. A lot of cribs older than that were recalls due to the danger of strangulation or entrapment posed by the gaps between the mattress, the sides and the crib. Make sure the crib you are considering meets the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirement, which was introduced in November 2020.
The new regulations prohibit cribs 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 bit lower than the 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 that were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards in 2017.
It's also important to ensure that the crib you're considering is able to attach securely to your bed and is secured correctly. This is especially important if you intend to use the crib with a sidecar sleeping 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's important to keep in mind that a crib is meant for sleeping, and should not be used in conjunction with bedding or accessories such as toys, blankets, pillows or stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP, have issued official safe sleep guidelines that state that babies should sleep only in their crib or cot and not on an adult's bed, or any other type or soft furnishings.
Comfort
A crib for bedside use allows you to keep your child safe throughout the night, without the risk that they may be shared with another baby. This could increase the chance of SIDS. It also means that you can easily reach over and soothe your baby in the middle of the night without having to get out of bed. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to a Moses basket or infant bassinet for your newborn and babies up to 6 months old.
The most effective models come with slats that are wide and spacious enough to allow air flow. They also come with a door and/or window that can be folded up or down depending on the need. This makes it simple to nurse, change your baby or check on them during the night. Some models also include a swaddle sack to help you to have a secure sleep routine.
You want a mattress that is light and compact when folded making it easy to move around your home or transport to your destination. The mattress cover must be removable and washable, making it simple to clean. A pocket on one side is handy to store nappies or baby clothes.
Some cribs for bedside use mattresses, whereas 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 comfortable. Avoid using mattresses from second-hand stores, as they may increase the risk of SIDS.
Choose a crib that has an adjustable height to ensure that it's in line with the size of your bed. my sources that can be adjusted in height could be a great help to you, particularly when you are recovering from a C-section.
Some models include useful features, like a tummy-tilt to prevent reflux, or a detachable moses bin which can later be used as a toddler playpen. Check if the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat to store, or comes with a bag. It's also worth looking into how much the model costs and what bedding is included - it's often necessary to purchase additional sheets for your baby's bedside crib.
Style
Bedside cribs are a great option for new mums. They allow them to monitor their infant at night and during diaper changes without getting out of the bed. They can also be useful in helping babies recover from a C-section or other medical condition such as colic or reflux.
Choosing the best bedside crib for you depends on your preferences and your lifestyle. Apart from the obvious safety features, think about whether you'd like to be able to lift your child from the crib to feed them or comfort them and if it includes any additional features, such as rocking functions. Consider the height and dimensions of your bed to ensure that the crib you select will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs are more affordable than Moses Baskets, however they do have some great features, such as the breathable mesh, the see-through sides, reflux incline option and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favourite, as it combines both style and practicality into the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three different colors with elegant oak legs that make it a great fit for any bedroom. Plus, it's easy to assemble and fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that slide down to allow you to touch your baby during the day and to ensure a safe co-sleeping experience however, they come back up at the night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for example, but one of our MFM Home testers found it difficult to use at first.
You should ensure that the bedding used for a crib beside a bedside is fitted properly. There shouldn't be gaps or other openings which could cause an air suffocation. That's why many cribs have mattresses that are fitted, but you can find suitable sheets at a variety of retailers. It is a good idea to avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they are prone to wear and deteriorate over time, potentially increasing the risk of SIDS.
Bedside cribs are also smaller and lighter than Moses baskets. This makes them easier to move from room to space, or take on trips on. The most effective bedside cribs are small enough to fit in a carry bag, so you can easily bring them along for short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs let you observe your baby without having to worry about them falling off the bed or suffocating. It's important to remember that the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other sleep guidelines that are official recommend you only co-sleep your baby with them for the first six months, with an additional mattress in the same space to minimize the risk of SIDS.
Depending on which model you choose the crib that you choose for your bed could come with features that make it more comfortable. One of the best cribs in our MFM home test is a swivel, and is adjustable in height to make it easier for you reach in and pick your child up. The sidewall of this model that dips down. One MFM home tester reported that this gave her gain access" to help their child.
Some models include additional features for example, a rocking feature (useful for babies with a lot of fuss) or an incline setting to aid with reflux. These are useful if your child has a condition that causes reflux, but your infant should be sleeping on a firm, flat mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Consider how easy it is to clean the model. Find out if the fabric can be machine washable and has a waterproof protector to guard against leaky nappies or drips. Some cribs have fitted sheets that make it easier to wash and change.
Take into consideration the ease of assembly and compactness when folded. Check if the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with bags included to travel with. Also, think about if it has extras like tilting the tummy or the possibility of turning it into moses baskets for older babies - this could be helpful for travel.