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Is a Bedside Crib Co Sleeper Right For Your Baby?
A bedside crib with a co-sleeper is a fantastic option if you want your baby close by for fuss-free evening feeding. They're a safe alternative to traditional Moses baskets, following the official guidelines for safe sleeping from the Lullaby Trust and NHS.
Home testers love the fact that this crib rotates 360deg to make it easy to access and comes with an adjustable mattress to fit your bed. It is also easy to fold up and comes with a carry-on bag for traveling.
Safety
Bedside cribs allow you to keep your baby close to you at night without fear of suffering from suffocation. They attach to your bed, which means you can reach out to help or feed your child in the middle night. They're also great for mothers recovering from having a c-section. But there's a lot to think about before you purchase one.
If you're looking for a crib to put next to your bed, be sure that the model you choose conforms to current safety standards. Many older cribs were recalls due to the danger of strangulation or entrapment caused by the gaps between the mattress, the sides and the crib. Check that the crib you pick meets the new BS EN1130:2019 safety standard, which will be introduced in November 2020.
The new rules prohibit cribs that are used for bedside use from having sides that completely drop down. Instead, most models feature half-height walls that allow your baby to lie close to your bed, but offer a more secure barrier by sinking a bit lower than your mattress. All of the models in our list meet the new standards and include the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Chicco Lullago that were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby Awards 2017.
Verify that the crib is securely attached to your bed, and that it is securely fixed. This is especially important if you plan to use it with a sleeper that is a sidecar, like the freestanding Graco Pack 'n Play on the move or the Graco BassiNest Premiere, which were both shortlisted in the Mother&Baby awards.
It's also important to remember that the crib is intended to sleep and should not be used with bedding or accessories like blankets, pillows toys or animals that are stuffed. Official advice for safe sleep from The Lullaby Trust and the AAP is that babies should only rest in their own bed space in their crib or cot and not on an adult bed or any other type of mattress or soft furnishing.
Comfort
A crib for your bed lets you keep your baby close by at night without the risk of bed-sharing which can increase the likelihood of SIDS. It also means that you can easily reach over and comfort your baby during the middle of the night without having to get up. It's a safe, convenient and comfortable alternative to the Moses basket or infant bassinet for babies and infants up to 6 months old.
The best models feature good breathability with slats wide enough and open enough to allow airflow. You can also roll up and down the window or door according to your needs. It's easy to change your baby's diaper and nurse them or check on them at the end of the night. Some models include a swaddle bag to aid in creating a safe sleeping routine.
You want a model that is lightweight and compact when folded so it's easy to move around your home or to take with you on your travels. It is also easy to clean, with a the option of removing and washing the mattress cover. The pocket on one side can be used to store spare diapers and baby clothes.
Some bedside cribs include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Ensure that baby bedside crib is designed specifically for your model and is firm, flat and comfortable. Avoid using second-hand mattresses because they can increase the risk of SIDS.
Find a crib that has an adjustable height so that it matches the height of your own bed. A bedside crib that is adjustable in height can be a great help for you, particularly in the event that you recovering from a C-section.
Some models include useful extras, like a tummy-tilt to prevent reflux, or a detachable moses' basket that can later be used as a playpen for toddlers. Be sure to consider whether the crib is rocking, or can be folded flat for storage or comes with a bag. Find out the price and what bedding is included with the crib. It is often necessary to purchase separate sheets for your child's bedside cot.
Style
New mums appreciate the convenience of cribs that are placed at bedside that let them keep an eye on baby during night feedings and changing nappy without getting out of the bed. They also help babies settle after a c-section or when recovering from other medical conditions, such as colic or reflux.
The best bedside crib depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Take into consideration the safety features and if you are able to remove your baby from the crib in order to feed them or calm them. Also, check whether the crib comes with extras, such as rocking capabilities. Also, look at the dimensions and the height of your bed, and ensure that the crib you choose will fit comfortably.
Bedside cribs tend to be more affordable than Moses baskets however don't be deceived they're still loaded with great features like the breathable mesh and clear sides, as well as reflux incline options and an adjustable height. The Tutti Bambini CoZee is our favourite, as it combines practicality and style to create the perfect co-sleeper. It's available in three colors with stylish oak legs to be a perfect fit in any bedroom. Plus, it's easy to put together and fold, and comes with a handy travel bag for trips to visit the grandparents.
Some cribs have side panels that can be lowered during the day, allowing the baby to be held and sleep safely, but are raised again at night. This feature is available on the Arm's Reach Clear View Co-Sleeper for instance, however one of our MFM Home testers found it difficult to use initially.
It is essential to make sure that the bedding used for a crib next to a bed is properly fitted. There should not be gaps or other openings which could lead to suffocation. This is why a lot of cribs have an adjustable mattress, however sheets that are suitable for use at most retailers. It's a good idea avoid mattresses that are second-hand, as they may be worn out and become deteriorated 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 to rooms, or to take on trips on. The best bedside cradles are small enough to fit in bags to allow you to transport them on short trips.
Convenience
Bedside cribs are ideal for parents and newborns because they allow you to see your baby at night without the fear of them rolling off your mattress or becoming suffocated. But, it's important to remember that the official guidelines for safe sleep from the Lullaby Trust and NHS recommends you only co-sleep with your child for the first six months with an additional bed in the same space, to reduce the risk of SIDS.
The model you choose, the bedside crib may include features that make it more comfortable. For instance one of the top-rated models we tested in our MFM home tests swivels and adjusts height so it's easy to reach into the crib and pick up your little one. This model has a sidewall that slopes down. One MFM home tester said that this gave her 'easy access" to comfort their child.
Some models have extra features such as a rocking feature (great for babies who are fussy) or incline settings to help with reflux. These may be handy to use if your baby is suffering from an illness that causes reflux but be aware that your baby should sleep on a flat, firm mattress to avoid suffocation and overheating.
Consider how easy it is to clean the model. Make sure the fabric is machine washable and comes with a waterproof protector to keep away leaky nappies and drips. Some cribs with a bedside have a fitted sheet that makes it easier for you to change it and wash it.
Consider the ease of assembly and compactness when folded. Be sure to check if the bed is simple to put together and if it comes with an included bag to carry it on the road. Lastly, consider if it has extras like tilting your tummy or the option of turning it into a moses basket for older children. This can be useful for travelling.