Bedside Crib and Cot
A crib or bedside cot can be easily accessed for evening feedings and soothing. Most feature adjustable heights and a flat, firm and breathable mattress that will help your baby sleep deeply and safely.
Mom test subject Jasmin appreciated this crib's size, saying it's much larger than typical Moses baskets, but it's not too big. She also loved the mesh windows and the 30 second open-folding mechanism.
Easy access
A bedside crib, also referred to as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet, is a specifically designed sleep solution that allows babies to be close to their parents without the dangers of co-sleeping (like falling off the parent's mattress or getting suffocated). As such, it is particularly beneficial for mums who are recovering from a C-section as they recover and assist them in getting back into the swing of life with baby.
While it's a great method to teach sharing your space with your child but you must consider certain things when buying one. You should make sure that the crib is at least a 12cm wall or barrier to prevent 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 take your child in the night for feeding or comforting, and it's crucial that it is placed neatly close to your bed.
The top-rated bedside crib we've found is the SnuzPod 4. It's an extremely popular product worldwide due to its Scandi design and array of features, including a dedicated "ComfortAir" technology which helps regulate temperature and maximise airflow. Other options that are popular include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, that has a swiveling sleep area and a drop-down sidewall that slides down to allow you to easily reach inside to take baby in or comfort them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has a collapsible edge that you can easily fold with your hand. It will then automatically return to its upright position.
The cribs we've reviewed for you here will fit neatly next to your bed and meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard that introduced stricter requirements for these kinds of cribs. There are some older cribs that aren't up to these strict standards are still being sold on the market however they'll gradually disappear from stores as manufacturers replace them with safer models. Check to see if the crib you are considering buying meets the new safety standard.
Safety
The provision of a safe and secure sleeping environment is vital for your baby's health and well-being. When selecting a crib, or cot, choose one that is affixed to NHS safety standards and has been certified by childcare experts like the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical sleeping solution that allows parents to keep their child close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring the baby that they're not in danger.
When buying a bassinet, bedside cot, or crib, ensure that it has a firm flat mattress. Any gaps can lead to suffocation. Make sure that the crib frame is sturdy and the slats are not exceed 2-3/8 inches. Verify that the mattress is in accordance with EN 16890 and has been tested to ensure the strength, stability and firmness.
Also, you should avoid putting in anything to your infant's crib that increase the risk of suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation like blankets, pillows and toys except if they're designed for sleep. Also, avoid any sleep wedges or positioners since they're not clinically proved to improve sleep, and could be dangerous for your baby.
It's a good idea to purchase a crib with fixed sides instead of cribs with drop sides, as these are considered safer. It's also important to stay clear of cribs that have mobiles attached, as these can pose strangulation and choking risk if the string or cord becomes entangled around the neck of your baby.
Also, make certain to verify that the crib's hardware is free of any sharp edges which could hurt or scratch your baby. In addition, make sure that the crib's mattress and bedding are secured properly and that there aren't loose or broken screws and brackets, buckles, or snaps. You should also look for a JPMA Certification seal, because it indicates that the crib has been sample tested and has met 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 do not want to share a bed, a bedside crib is a great alternative. Also called co-sleepers, or bedside bassinets, these babies' beds attach to the sides of the parents' bed, giving them a private place to rest but still within reach for feedings at night and providing comfort. This close interaction strengthens the bond between children and parents, and promotes healthy sleeping habits. Parents can also respond quickly to any waking requirements during the night.
Many cribs come with an additional side panel that can be lowered and kept down at night to allow you to observe your baby and raise them up towards you for feeding, night nappy changes or soothing. Some even have a unique zip-down mesh wall that can be folded up and tucked into the mattress for additional security, removing the possibility of stray blankets or duvets falling over your baby. The SnuzPod 4 for instance has a air-flow-enhancing fabric that allows for more airflow, reducing the risk of suffocation.
It is possible to attach the majority of cribs to your bed or mattress using straps. However, you should check that the straps included with the crib will be able to fit your bed frame. This is especially important if you own divan-style beds. Some cribs can be folded away and stored when they're not being used, making them ideal to travel with.
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, fostering bonding and socialisation. Some cribs are portable, so you can move them around whenever you need to. This lets you keep your child close all day, promoting bonding and socialisation. Cribs are also a great choice to help your baby become more independent. bedside crib or cot will be able to sleep independently and establish an established routine.
Space
Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical way to co-sleep. You can see and touch your child with no having to leave your bed. Some cribs come with an incline setting that can help with congestion and reflux. Some have under-seat storage to store wipes and muslin. Make sure you choose a mattress specifically 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 also great for mothers recovering from a C section as they can be used while still lying down. They can assist your baby become comfortable sleeping in their crib by themselves and help them develop independence. The barrier they create between their bed and yours reduces the chance of suffocation.
There are a lot of options including budget-friendly and high-end. Some cribs are more compact and fold up to be stored away, while others come with a travel bag that allows you to take them to the beach on weekends. Take into consideration the dimensions of your room and whether the crib can be able to fit. Your baby may get out of it earlier than you think so don't purchase too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and has an elegant oak base. It has an anti-reflux setting as well as a side panel which opens and is easy to clean. It's suitable for most bed frames but you might find it tricky to fit when you have a divan.
If you're looking for a chic bedside crib that includes a mattress and bags for carrying this crib from Chicco is worth a look. Its unique design features a perforated base that boosts airflow, and it comes with an array of height adjustments for your growing baby. It's also extremely easy to clean and has a useful under-seat storage area for wipes, nappies, and other baby toys.