Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?

If you're looking to keep your baby close for the night without any fuss, a bedside crib co-sleeper is the best option. These co-sleepers are a safer alternative to traditional Moses' baskets. They are based on official safe sleeping guidelines from the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other organizations.

This crib is a favorite by home testers due to the fact that it can be adjusted to suit the bed's height, and it swivels all 360 degrees to make it easy to access. It is also easy to fold and comes with a carry-on bag for traveling.

Safety

Bedside cribs are a great option to keep your baby close at night without the risk of overheating or suffocating. They attach to the side of your bed so you can easily reach out to soothe or feed your infant in the middle of the night. They're perfect for mothers recovering from an op. There are a variety of factors to consider prior to purchasing one.

When you're looking for a bedside crib, make sure you're looking at a model that complies with current safety standards. A number of cribs from the past have been recalled because they allow babies to fall in gaps between the mattress and the sides of the crib or they pose a risk of strangulation or entrapment. Be sure that the crib you select is compliant with the latest BS EN1130:2019 safety standard, which will be launched in November 2020.

The new rules forbid cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely fall down. The majority of models have 'half-height' walls, which still allow your child to lay on your bed, but offer a more secure barrier as they sink below the mattress. All of our models are in compliance with these new standards. This includes the Graco Pack 'n Play On The Go and the Chicco Lullago which were both shortlisted for the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.

Check that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is properly 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&Baby Awards.

It's also important to keep in mind that a crib should be used only for sleeping purposes and should not be used with any bedding or accessories, like pillows, blankets toys, or toys for stuffed animals. The Lullaby Trust, along with the AAP, have issued official safe sleep advice that states that infants should only sleep in their cribs or cots and not on an adult's bed, or any other type or soft furnishings.

Comfort

A crib that is placed near your bed will allow you to keep your child close at night, without the risk that they may be shared with other babies. This could increase the chance of SIDS. It is also a way to easily reach over and comfort your baby in the middle of the night without needing to get up. It's an alternative to a Moses Basket or infant bassinet that is safe, practical, and comfortable for your new baby and babies up until 6 months of age.


The top models offer good breathability with slats wide enough to let air flow. They also have an opening or window that can be rolled up or down depending on the need. It's easy to change your baby's diaper, nurse them, or monitor them at the end of the night. Some models include an swaddle bag that can aid in creating a safe sleeping routine.

You want a model that is lightweight and compact when folded making it easy to move around your home or transport to your destination. It should also be easy to clean, and come with a a removable and washable mattress cover. The pocket on one side can be used to store spare diapers and baby clothes.

Some cribs for bedside use a mattress, while others must purchase separately. Be sure the mattress is flat, firm and airy. Avoid using second-hand mattresses, as they may increase the risk of SIDS.

Choose a crib that has an adjustable height to ensure that it matches the height of your own bed. Particularly if you're recovering from C-section surgery A bedside crib that has an adjustable height gives you a greater chances of getting in and out of bed easily especially in the initial weeks of healing.

Some models have extra features that could be beneficial like a tummy tilt for reflux, or the ability to detach to transform into a moses basket and later toddler playpen. bedside cot used to consider include whether the crib rock, folds down to lie flat for storage, or comes with a bag for travel. It's also worth checking the price and what bedding is included - it's often necessary to purchase separate sheets for your baby's crib.

Style

New mums appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them keep an eye on baby during feedings at night and changing nappy without getting out of bed. They are also a great way to help babies settle after c-section, or after recovering from other medical conditions such as reflux or colic.

The best bedside crib depends on your lifestyle and needs. In addition to the obvious safety features, consider whether you'd like to be able to get your child from the crib to feed them or comfort them, and if it has any additional features, such as the ability to rock. Also, take a look at the dimensions and height of your bed and make sure that the crib you choose will be able to fit comfortably.

Bedside cribs are cheaper than Moses Baskets, but they do have some great features, such as breathable mesh and see through sides, reflux incline option and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favorite, since it combines practicality and style to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors with stylish oak legs to make it a great fit for any bedroom. It's also simple to put together, fold and comes with a handy bag for trips to grandparents.

Some cribs have side panels that can be removed in the daytime to allow you to hold your baby and sleep in a safe manner however, they are raised at 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 at first.

You must make sure that the bedding used for a crib beside a bedside is fitted properly. There should not be gaps or other openings, which could lead to suffocation. This is why a lot of cribs come with a fitted mattress, but you can find suitable sheets at most retailers. It's a good idea to avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they are prone to wear and degrade over time, posing a risk of 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 space, or take when you go on vacation. The best bedside cribs are small enough to fit in a carry bag, so they are easy to take to short trips.

Convenience

Bedside cribs are ideal for parents and newborns because they allow you to watch your baby at night without the danger of them falling off your mattress or becoming suffocated. It is important to remember that the Lullaby Trust, NHS and other official sleep guidelines recommend that you only sleep with them for the first six month with a separate mattress in the same room to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Based on the model you pick, bedside cribs can have features that add to their ease of use. One of the best cribs in our MFM home test is a swivel, and can be adjusted in height to make it easier to reach and pick your child up. This model also has a sidewall that dips down, which one MFM home tester reported gave her 'easy access' to comfort their infant.

Some models have extra features like a rocking feature (great for babies who are fussy) or incline settings that help with reflux. These are beneficial in the event that your child suffers from a condition that can cause reflux, however, your baby should be sleeping on an even, firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.

When selecting a model take into consideration how easy it is to keep clean. Find out if the fabric can be machine washable and has a waterproof protector to protect against leaky nappies or drips. Some cribs have fitted sheets that make it easier to wash and change.

Other things to consider are how easy it is to assemble and how compact it is when folded away. Make sure the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with bags included for travel. Take note of additional features like a tummy-tilt or the ability to convert it into the form of a Moses basket for older children. This is a great feature when travelling.