Bedside Crib and Cot
A crib or bedside cot can be easily accessed for evening feedings and comforting. The majority of cribs can be adjusted in height, and a firm mattress that is flat and ventilated. This allows your baby to sleep safely and deeply.
Jasmin, a mum test participant, was impressed by the size of the crib. She said it was bigger than the standard Moses baskets but not too large. She also appreciated the mesh windows and the 30 second open-folding mechanism.
bedside crib and travel cot (also called a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper) is a specifically-designed sleep solution that lets parents 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 will help them get into the swing with their baby.
While it's a fantastic way to learn to share the space with your baby but you must consider certain things when purchasing one. In general it is best to ensure that the crib is secured with an enclosure of 12cm to prevent your baby from rolling out and over onto the other side of the bed. It must also have a simple-to-access drop-down side that allows you can reach out and pick up your little one at night to feed or comforting. It's crucial that it is placed perfectly close to your bed.
The best-rated crib for bedside use is the SnuzPod 4. It is a global bestseller thanks to its Scandi design and numerous features. It has the ComfortAir technology, which regulates temperature and maximizes airflow. The HALO BassiNest Essentia is another popular choice. It has an adjustable sleeping space that can be swiveled and the sidewall can be easily removed so you can reach in to pick up baby or soothe them. The Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsible side that means you can simply push it down using your hand and then it automatically returns to its upright position.
All cribs we've analyzed for you below will be able to fit comfortably next your bed and meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard that introduced stricter standards for these types of products. There are some cribs on the market that don't conform to these standards, but as manufacturers replace older models with safer ones, they'll slowly disappear from stores. Make sure that the model you're thinking about purchasing meets the new safety standard to ensure it's safe.
Safety
It is crucial to ensure an environment that is secure and safe for your newborn. Look for cribs or cots that are in compliance with NHS safety standards, and have been approved by childcare professionals such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a safe and practical solution for sleeping that lets parents keep their infant close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring the baby that they're not in danger.
When buying an upholstered bedside cot, bassinet or crib, make sure that it has a sturdy and flat mattress. Any gaps could cause death. Be sure that the crib frame is sturdy and the slats are not exceed 3/8 inches. Verify that the mattress is in compliance with EN 16890 and that it has been tested to assure solidity, stability, and firmness.
Avoid putting blankets, pillows and stuffed toys in your baby's crib unless they're specifically designed to be used for sleeping. Additionally, stay clear of any sleep wedges or positioners because they're not scientifically proved to improve sleep, and could pose danger to your baby.
It's better to buy a crib that has fixed sides than one with drop sides. They are safer. It's also worth avoiding cribs with mobiles attached as these can pose strangulation and choke risk if the string or cord is entangled around your baby's neck.
Be sure to check that your crib's hardware is free of any sharp edges that could scratch or injure your baby. Also, ensure that the crib's mattress and bedding are securely secured and that there aren't broken or loose screws, brackets, buckles or snaps. Also, look for an JPMA Certification seal because it indicates that the crib has been tested and is in compliance with the industry's highest safety standards. The seal can be found by searching for a product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.
Practicality
If you'd like to sleep near your baby but don't want to share a bed the bedside crib is a great alternative. Also known as co-sleepers or bedside bassinets, these babies are attached to the sides of parents' bed and provide them with a private space in which to sleep but within easy reach for night feedings and comforting. This close proximity helps strengthen the bond between parent and child, and encourages healthy sleep patterns, with parents able to respond quickly to any wake-up demands during the night.
Many cribs come with an additional side panel that can be lowered and then lowered so that you can see your baby and easily lift them out towards you for feeding, nappy changes or soothing. Some cribs even come with a unique mesh wall that zips down and can be zipped up and tucked into the mattress for extra security, removing the possibility of stray duvets or blankets falling on top of your baby. The SnuzPod 4 for example is a air-flow-enhancing fabric that allows for more airflow, which reduces the risk of being suffocated.
You can attach most cribs to your mattress or bed using straps. However, you must check that the straps included with the crib will be able to fit your bed frame. This is particularly important if you own divan-style beds. Some cribs are foldable and can be stored away when not in use making them a great option for travel.
Some cribs can be used on their own which allows you to move them around the room if needed. This lets you keep your baby close throughout the day, encouraging bonding and socialisation. Some cribs are portable, which means you can move them around whenever you need to. This allows you to keep your child near all day, promoting socialisation and bonding. They're also a great method to help your baby feel more independent, as they'll be able to sleep without you with them and establish a routine for self-sleeping.
Space
Bedside cribs are a safe and practical way to co-sleep. You can see and reach your child without having to leave your bed. Some cribs have an incline setting that aids in reducing reflux and congestion. Others feature under-seat storage to store wipes and muslin. Always choose the mattress made specifically for your crib. Second-hand mattresses may be too flat or worn-out, thereby increasing the chance of SIDS.
In addition to providing an easy access to nighttime feedings, bedside cribs are great for mums recovering from a C-section as they can be used while still laying down. They can also help your baby adjust to sleeping in their own crib and help them develop independence, while the wall they create between your bed and theirs minimizes the chance of suffocation.
There are plenty of options, from budget-friendly to high-end. Some cribs fold and put away while others have a travel bag that you can take them out for weekends. Consider the dimensions of your room and whether the crib can fit in there. Your baby may be older than you anticipated so don't purchase too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and has a stylish oak base. It also comes with an anti-reflux tilt setting and opening side panel, as well as being easy to clean. It's suitable for most beds, however you might have trouble fitting it if you have divan.
Chicco's bedside crib is stylish and comes with the mattress, a carrying bag, and a chic design. Its unique design has a perforated base that boosts airflow, and it has a range of height adjustments for your growing baby. It is also easy to clean and has a handy under-seat storage space for nappies as well as wipes.