Bedside Crib and Cot
Built to be placed next to your bed, a bedside crib or cot is easy to access for night feeds and comforting. Many come with adjustable heights and a flat, firm, breathable mattress to help your baby sleep deeply and comfortably.
Jasmin, a mum tester, liked the dimensions of the crib. She said it was bigger than the standard Moses baskets but not too large. She also appreciated the multiple mesh windows and the 30-second open-fold mechanism.
Access to information
A bedside crib (also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper) is a specifically-designed sleep solution that allows parents to keep their babies close without the dangers associated with co-sleeping. It can be especially helpful for mothers who have had C-sections as they recover and assist them in adjusting to the swing with their baby.
Although it's an excellent method of getting used to sharing your space with baby, there are a few things to take into account when buying one. As a rule of thumb you should make sure that the crib has a wall of 12cm to prevent your baby from rolling out and over onto your side of the bed. It should also have an easy-to-reach drop-down side that allows you can reach out and take your child at night to feed or comforting, and it's crucial that it is placed neatly close to your bed.
The top-rated crib for bedside use is the SnuzPod 4. It's a worldwide bestseller thanks to its Scandi aesthetics and an array of features. It has the ComfortAir technology that regulates temperature and maximizes airflow. The HALO BassiNest Essentia is a popular option. It features an adjustable sleeping space that can be swiveled and a sidewall that can be easily removed so you can reach in to pick baby up or soothe them. Similarly, the Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsed side, which means you can simply push it down with your hand and then it will automatically return to its upright position.
All cribs we've analyzed for you here can be easily placed next to your bed and are compliant with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which has introduced more stringent standards for these types of cribs. There are some older cribs that don't comply with these strict standards are still available for sale however they'll gradually disappear from stores as manufacturers replace them with the newer, safer models. Make sure you check the crib you're thinking of buying meets this new safety standard to ensure it's secure.
Safety
A secure and safe sleeping environment is vital for your baby's health and well-being. Look for cribs or cots that meet NHS safety standards and have been approved by childcare professionals, such as the director at the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a secure, practical solution for parents who wish to keep their children close. This helps to build bonds and gives parents peace of mind that they aren't in danger.
When buying a bedside cot, bassinet or crib, make sure that it has a sturdy and flat mattress. Any gaps could lead to death. Be sure that the crib frame is solid and the slats are 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.
Avoid putting blankets, pillows and stuffed toys to your crib unless they're specifically designed for sleep. Avoid sleep wedges and positioning devices, as they have not been clinically proven to aid your baby's sleep. They can also be dangerous.
It's best to purchase a crib that has fixed sides than one with drop sides. They are safer. Avoid cribs that have mobiles that are attached, as they could pose a strangulation and choking risk to your child if the cord or string gets caught in.
Make sure the crib hardware is free of sharp edges which could scratch or harm your baby. Make sure that the crib mattress and bedding are properly secured, and that there aren't any loose or broken screws or brackets. You should also look for an JPMA Certification seal since this indicates that the crib has been sample tested and is in compliance with the industry's highest safety standards. You can locate the seal by searching for a product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.
Practicality
If you want to sleep near your baby but do not want to share a bed, a bedside crib is a good option. Also known as co-sleepers or bassinets at the bedside, these babies are attached to the sides of the parents' bed providing them with a secure space in which to sleep but within easy reach for night feeds and providing comfort. This close contact helps to strengthen the bond between the parent and child, and promotes healthy sleeping patterns with parents able respond quickly to any wake-up demands during the night.
Many cribs have a side panel which can be taken down at night and left. This allows you to see and feed your baby or to change their nappy at night. Some cribs come with a mesh wall that zips down and can be placed in the mattress to provide extra security. This eliminates the risk of blankets or duvets falling onto your baby. cot bedside , for instance, has a breathable material that increases airflow and decreases the chance of suffocation.
You can attach most cribs to your bed or mattress with straps. But, it is important to ensure that the straps supplied with the crib will be able to fit the bed frame. This is particularly crucial if you have divan-style beds. Some cribs fold and can be stored away when not in use making them a great choice for traveling.
Some cribs can be used on their own and allow you to move them around the room as you need to. This allows you to keep your baby close throughout the day, encouraging bonding and socialisation. Some cribs are portable, which means you can move them around as you need to. This allows you to keep your child near all day long, which encourages socialisation and bonding. These cribs are also an excellent option for helping your baby to feel more independent. They will be able to fall asleep on their own and will develop routines.
Space
Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical method to sleep with your child. You can observe and reach your child without leaving your bed. Some cribs come with an incline setting that aids in reducing congestion and reflux. Others feature under-seat storage to store wipes and muslin. You should always choose a mattress that is specifically that is specifically designed for your crib at night mattress - second-hand mattresses are likely to be too flat or worn out, which can increase the chance of SIDS.
In addition, they provide an easy access to nighttime feedings, bedside cribs are great for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as they can be used even when lying down. They can assist your baby learn to sleep in their crib on their own and develop independence. The barrier they create between their bed and yours reduces the chance of being suffocated.
There are a myriad of options, from budget-friendly models to expensive ones. Some cribs can be folded and stored away while others have a travel bag that you can use to transport them away for weekends. Take into consideration the dimensions of your room and whether the crib will fit. Your baby may be older than expected, so don't buy too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and has a beautiful oak base. It also has an anti-reflux tilt setting and an opening side panel as well as being easy to clean. It's compatible with most beds, however you might have trouble fitting it when you have a divan.
If you're looking for a stylish bedside crib that comes with the mattress as well as an accompanying bag This crib from Chicco is worth considering. It's an exclusive design that has a perforated bottom to increase airflow. It also comes with adjustable heights to accommodate your growing child. It is also easy to clean, and has a handy under-seat storage area for nappies and wipes.