Bedside Crib and Cot
A crib or bedside cot can be easily accessed for night feedings and soothing. Most cribs are adjustable in height and a mattress that is flat and breathable. This allows your baby sleep soundly and deeply.
Jasmin, a mum test participant, was impressed by the size of the crib. bedside co sleeper said it was larger than standard Moses baskets, but not too big. She also appreciated the mesh windows and the 30 second open-folding mechanism.
Accessibility
A bedside crib (also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper) is a specially-designed sleep solution that lets parents keep their children close without the dangers associated with co-sleeping. It can be especially helpful for mothers who have had C-sections, as they recover, and can assist them in adjusting to the swing with their baby.
While it's a fantastic method to teach sharing your space with your baby however, you should be aware of certain things when buying one. You will want to make sure that the crib has at minimum 12cm of wall or barrier to keep your child from falling over and onto your side. It must also have a simple-to-access drop-down side that allows you can reach out and pick up your little one during the night for feeding or comforting. It's essential that it sits neatly beside your bed.
The top-rated bedside crib we've come across is the SnuzPod 4. It's the top-selling crib worldwide due to its Scandi design and array of features, including a dedicated 'ComfortAir' technology that helps regulate temperature and maximise airflow. Other options that are popular include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, which has a swiveling sleep area as well as a sidewall that slides down so that you can easily reach inside to pick up baby or soothe them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has a collapsible edge that you can easily fold down with your hand. It will then automatically return to its upright position.
All the cribs we've reviewed here can be easily placed beside your bed. They also meet the latest BS EN1130:2019 safety standards, which have higher standards for this type of crib. There are some cribs available on the market that don't conform to these standards, but as manufacturers replace older models with newer safer ones, they'll slowly disappear from the stores. Check that the crib you're thinking of purchasing meets this new safety standard.
Safety
It is important to provide an environment that is safe and secure for your baby. Look for cribs or cots that meet NHS safety standards and have been endorsed by childcare experts such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a safe and practical sleep solution that allows parents to keep their infant close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring them that they're not in danger.
If you are looking for a bedside cot, bassinet or cot, make sure it has a solid mattress, and there are no gaps that could result in an entrapment or suffocation. Make sure the crib frame is solid and the slats do not exceed 2-3/8 inches. Check that the mattress meets size regulations set out by EN 16890 and has been examined for strength, stability and firmness.
You should also avoid adding any items to your baby's crib that increase the danger of suffocation, entrapment or strangulation like blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals or other items unless they're specifically designed for sleep. Avoid sleep wedges and positioners, as they have not been scientifically proven to aid your baby's sleep. They can also be risky.
It's a good idea to buy a crib that has fixed sides, as opposed to those that have drop sides, as these are considered safer. It's also important to stay clear of cribs that have mobiles attached, as they could pose strangulation and choking risk in the event that the cord or string is entangled around your baby's neck.
Be certain to verify that your crib's hardware is free of any sharp edges that could cause injury or scratch to your baby. In addition, ensure that the crib's mattress and bedding are properly secured and that there aren't loose or broken screws buckles, brackets, or snaps. Also, look for a JPMA Certification seal, since this indicates that the crib has been sample tested and has met the highest safety standards in the industry. Find the seal on JPMA Certification Directory by selecting a category for the product.
Practicality
If you'd like to be close to your newborn but don't want to share a bed, a bedside crib is a great alternative. Also known bedside cosleeper -sleepers or bassinets for bedside, these infants are attached to the side of parents' bed, giving them a private place to rest but within easy reach for feedings at night and providing comfort. This close proximity helps strengthen the bond between parents and child. It also helps to promote healthy sleep patterns and parents who are able to respond quickly to any waking needs during the night.
Many cribs come with a side panel which can be taken down at night and left. This lets you see and feed your baby, or change their nappy during the night. Some cribs even come with a unique mesh wall that zips down and can be zipped up and then tucked into the mattress for extra security, eliminating any chance of stray blankets or duvets falling over your baby. The SnuzPod 4 as an example is a air-flow-enhancing fabric that allows for more airflow, reducing the risk of the suffocation risk.
Most cribs come with straps that let you attach them to the side of your mattress or bed, but it's worth checking whether the straps included with your crib will fit your bed frame prior to buying - particularly if you have a divan bed because this could require longer straps. Some cribs can be folded and put away when not in use, making them an ideal choice to travel with.
The best cribs are made with practicality in mind and they're often loved by mothers who have had a c-section birth, as it's easier to get access to their infant without having to leave the bed in the recovery. Some cribs can even be utilized by themselves, which means you can move them around the room as required, allowing you to keep your baby close throughout the day too, encouraging bonding and socialisation. They are also a great way to help your baby feel more independent, as they'll be able to fall asleep without you by their side and establish a self-sleeping routine.
Space
The bedside crib provides a practical and safe way to co-sleep, allowing you to see and reach your baby easily without needing to get out of bed. Some cribs have an inclined setting that helps with reflux and congestion. Some have under-seat storage to store wipes and muslin. Always use a mattress designed for your bedside crib mattress - second-hand mattresses are likely to be too flat or worn out, increasing the chance of SIDS.
In addition to offering easy access for night feedings and feedings, bedside cribs are ideal for mothers who are recovering from a C section as they can be used even when still laying down. They can aid your baby to become comfortable sleeping in their crib on their own and develop independence. The barrier they create between their bed and yours minimizes the risk of being suffocated.
There are plenty of options to choose from including budget-friendly and high-end. Some cribs fold and put away while others come with a bag that you can take them out for weekends. It is also important to consider how big your bedroom is and whether the crib will be able to fit. keep in mind that your baby might outgrow it earlier than you expect so don't get too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and comes with a beautiful oak base. It also comes with an anti-reflux incline and an opening side panel and it's easy to clean. It is suitable for most bed frames, however it might be difficult to install when your divan is a little different.
If you're looking for a chic, premium bedside crib that includes the mattress as well as an accompanying bag, this option from Chicco is worth looking into. It has an exclusive design that has an open bottom that allows for more airflow. It also features a range in height adjustments for your growing child. It is also easy to clean and has a handy under-seat storage space for nappies as well as wipes.