Bedside Crib and Cot
A bedside crib or cot can be easily accessed for night feedings and soothing. Many come with adjustable heights and an incredibly firm, flat and breathable mattress that will help your baby rest deeply and comfortably.
Mom tester Jasmin was impressed by the crib's size, saying it's much larger than standard Moses baskets, but not too large. She also liked the mesh windows and the 30-second open-folding mechanism.
Access to information
A bedside crib (also called a bedside bassinet or a co-sleeper) is a specifically-designed sleep solution that allows parents to keep their children close, without the risks associated with co-sleeping. It can be especially helpful for mothers who have had C-sections while they recover, and will assist them in adjusting to the swing with baby.
While it's a great way to get used to sharing your space with baby, there are certain things to consider when purchasing one. You will want to ensure that the crib has at minimum 12cm of wall or barrier to keep your child from rolling over and falling onto your side. It must have a drop-down edge that is easy to reach, so you can pick up your baby in the middle of the night, be it for comforting or feeding.
The most highly-rated crib we've found is the SnuzPod 4, which is an extremely popular product worldwide due to its Scandi-inspired design and a variety of features, including a dedicated "ComfortAir" technology that assists in regulating the temperature and maximize airflow. Other options that are popular include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, which features a swiveling sleeping area and a drop-down sidewall that can be lowered effortlessly to allow you to easily reach inside to pick up baby or soothe them. Similarly, the Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsible side that lets you simply push it down with your fingers and it will automatically return to its upright position.
All the cribs we've reviewed for you below will fit neatly next to your bed and meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard that introduced stricter standards for these types of cribs. Some old versions of cribs that don't meet the strict standards are available on the market but they'll slowly disappear from stores as manufacturers replace them with the new safer models. Be sure to verify that the model you're thinking about purchasing has this new safety requirement to ensure it is secure.
Safety
The provision of a safe and secure sleeping environment is vital for your baby's wellbeing and health. When selecting a crib or cot, make sure you ensure that it conforms to NHS safety standards and has been approved by childcare experts such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a safe and practical solution for parents who want to keep their babies close. This fosters bonding and gives them assurance that they're not in danger.
When shopping for a bedside crib bassinet, or cot, be sure it has a firm mattress, and there are no gaps that could result in the entrapment or suffocation. Be sure that the crib frame is sturdy and the slats do not exceed 2-3/8 inches. Check that the mattress size is in compliance with EN 16890 and that it has been tested to ensure the strength, stability and firmness.
It is also recommended to avoid putting any items to your newborn's crib that increase the danger of suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation, such as blankets, pillows and stuffed animals, unless they're specifically designed to be used for sleep. Avoid sleep wedges and positioners since they haven't been scientifically proven to aid your baby's sleep. They can also be risky.
It's a good idea to purchase a crib with fixed sides in comparison to cribs with drop sides, as these are considered safer. It's also worth avoiding cribs with mobiles attached because these can pose strangulation and choking risk if the string or cord becomes entangled around the neck of your baby.
Make sure the crib hardware is free from any sharp edges which could scratch or harm your baby. In addition, ensure that the crib's mattress and bedding are properly secured and that there aren't loose or broken screws and brackets, buckles, or snaps. Check for the JPMA certification seal. This signifies that the crib was tested and is in compliance with safety standards. The seal can be found by searching for a product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.
Practicality
A bedside crib is a good option if you wish to be able to sleep next to your baby but not in the same bed. Also known as co-sleepers or bassinets for bedside, these infants are attached to the sides of parents' bed providing them with a secure place to rest but being within reach for feedings at night and providing comfort. This close connection strengthens the bond between parents and children and encourages healthy sleeping patterns. Parents can also react promptly to any wake-related needs during the night.
A lot of cribs have an additional side panel that can be removed and kept down at night to let you view your baby easily and lift them out towards you for feeding, night changing nappy or just for calming. Certain cribs feature a mesh wall that zips down and can be placed in the mattress to provide extra security. This reduces the risk of blankets or duvets falling onto your baby. The SnuzPod 4, for example, has a breathable material that boosts airflow and decreases the chance of the suffocation risk.
It is possible to attach the majority of cribs to your mattress or bed with straps. However, you should make sure that the straps provided with the crib will be able to fit the bed frame. This is especially important if you own a divan-style bed. Some cribs are foldable and can be stored away when not being used, making them an excellent option for those who travel.
Some cribs can be used on their own and allow you to move them around the room if needed. This allows you to keep your baby close throughout the day, fostering bonding and socialisation. Some cribs can be moved around, so you can move them around as you need to. This allows you to keep your child close throughout the day long, encouraging bonding and socialisation. Cribs are also an excellent option for helping your baby be more independent. They will be able to fall asleep independently and establish routines.
Space
The bedside crib offers an effective and safe method to sleep together and allows you to see and reach your baby easily without needing to get out of your bed. Some cribs have an inclined setting that can help with reflux and congestion. Others have storage under the seat to store wipes and muslin. Always use the mattress designed for your crib. Second-hand mattresses may be too flat or worn-out, thereby increasing the chance of SIDS.
Bedside cribs can be used by mums who are recovering from a C-section. They can also be used while laying down. They can also help your baby adjust to sleeping in their own crib and develop independence, while the wall they create between your bed and theirs minimizes the chance of being suffocated.
There are many options available, from budget-friendly models to top-of-the-line models. Some cribs fold and stored away while others have a travel bag that you can use to transport them away for weekends. Think about the dimensions of your bedroom and whether your crib will be able to fit. Your baby may get out of it earlier than you anticipated so don't purchase too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and comes with an elegant oak base. It has an anti-reflux option, a side panel that opens and is easy to clean. It's suitable for most beds, but you may find it tricky to fit on a divan.
If you're looking for a stylish, premium bedside crib that comes with the mattress as well as bags for carrying this crib from Chicco is worth looking into. Its unique design includes a perforated base which increases airflow, as well as a range of height adjustments to accommodate your growing baby. It is also easy to clean and comes with a handy under-seat storage area for nappies and wipes.