Bedside Crib and Cot
Built to be placed next to your bed, a bedside crib and cot are easy to reach to feed your baby at night and provide comfort. Many come with adjustable heights and a flat, firm and breathable mattress that will help your baby sleep deeply and safely.
Mum tester Jasmin was impressed by the crib's size and said it's larger than typical Moses baskets, but not too big. She also loved the mesh windows and the 30-second open-folding mechanism.
Easy access
A bedside crib, also referred 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 mattress of their parents or being suffocated). It can be especially helpful for mothers who have had C-sections while they recover, and will help them get into the swing with their baby.
While it's a great opportunity to begin sharing your space with your child but you must consider certain aspects when buying one. You will want to make sure that the crib has at minimum 12cm of a wall or barrier to stop your child from falling over and onto your side. It should also have an easy-to-reach drop-down side, so that you can reach and pick up your little one at night to feed or comforting. It's crucial that it is placed well close to your bed.
The most highly rated crib for bedside use is the SnuzPod 4. It's a worldwide bestseller due to its Scandi aesthetics and numerous features. It comes with the ComfortAir technology, which regulates temperature and maximizes airflow. The HALO BassiNest Essentia is also a popular choice. It features an adjustable sleeping area that swivels and an end wall that can be easily dropped so you can reach inside to pick baby up or soothe them. The Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsible side that 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 can be easily placed next to your bed and meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which has introduced more stringent requirements for these types of cribs. There are some older cribs that aren't up to these standards are being sold on the market but they'll slowly disappear from the market as manufacturers replace them with the safer models. Make sure that the crib you're thinking of purchasing meets the new safety requirement to ensure it is safe.
Safety
It is essential to ensure an environment that is safe and secure for your infant. When selecting a crib or cot, make sure you choose one that is affixed to NHS safety standards and has been endorsed by childcare experts, such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs provide a secure and practical sleeping solution that allows parents to keep their child close to them, encouraging bonding and reassuring the baby that they're not in danger.
If you are buying an upholstered bedside cot, bassinet or crib, make sure that it has a firm flat mattress. Any gaps could lead to suffocation. Be sure that the crib frame is sturdy and the slats are not exceed 2-3/8 inches. Make sure the mattress is in compliance with EN 16890 and that it has been tested to ensure solidity, stability, and firmness.
It is also recommended to avoid putting any items to your baby's crib that increase the danger of suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation, such as blankets, pillows, and toys, unless they're specifically designed for sleeping. Additionally, stay clear of any sleep wedges or positioning devices because they're not scientifically confirmed to improve sleep and could be dangerous for your infant.
It's a good idea to purchase a crib with fixed sides, as opposed to those that have drop sides, as they are considered safer. Avoid cribs with mobiles attached, as they could cause strangulation and choke risk to your baby when the string or cord becomes entangled.
Make sure that the crib's hardware is free from any sharp edges that could harm or scratch your baby. In addition, make sure that the crib's mattress and bedding are securely secured and that there aren't any loose or broken screws buckles, brackets, or snaps. You should also look for an JPMA Certification seal as this is an indication that the crib has been sample tested and has met the highest safety standards in the industry. look what i found 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. These beds, also known as co-sleepers, bedside bassinets can be attached to the side of your bed. They provide you with an area to rest in peace however, they are accessible to feedings at night and provide comfort. This close contact helps to strengthen the bond between the parent and child. It also encourages healthy sleep patterns with parents able respond quickly to any wake-up demands during the night.
A lot of cribs have an extra side panel that can be removed at night and left. This lets you see and feed your baby, or to change their nappies at night. Certain cribs feature a mesh wall that zips down and can be placed in the mattress to provide additional security. This eliminates the risk of blankets or duvets falling on your baby. The SnuzPod 4 for instance has a ventilatory fabric that improves airflow, reducing the chance of suffocation.
Most cribs have straps that allow you to secure them to the side of your bed or mattress It's important to make sure that the ones included with your crib will work with your bed frame prior to buying especially if you have a divan bed as this might require straps that are longer. Some cribs can also be folded away and stored when not in use, making them an ideal choice for travel too.
The best cribs are built with practicality in mind, and they're often loved by mothers who've had c-section births, as it's easier to get access to their baby without having to leave the bed during recovery. Some cribs are portable, so you can move them around whenever you need to. This allows you to keep your child close throughout the day long, which encourages socialisation and bonding. Cribs are also a great choice to help your baby feel more independent. They will learn to fall asleep on their own and develop routines.
Space
The bedside crib is a practical and safe way to sleep together and allows you to see and reach your baby easily without needing to get out of your bed. Some cribs also have incline settings that can help with congestion and reflux as well as under-seat storage for wipes as well as muslin squares. Always make sure you have a mattress specifically that is specifically designed for your crib at night as second-hand mattresses are more likely to be too flat or worn out, increasing the chance of SIDS.
In addition to offering 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 still lying down. They can assist your baby get used to sleeping in their crib on their own and help them develop independence. The wall they create between their bed and yours reduces the chance of suffocation.
There are many options available including budget-friendly models and expensive ones. Some cribs fold and stored away, while others come with a travel bag that you can use to take them on weekends. It is also important to consider the size of your room and if the crib will fit. keep in mind that your baby might grow out of it earlier than you think so don't get too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and comes with a stylish oak base. It comes with an anti-reflux feature as well as a side panel which opens and is easy to clean. It is suitable for most beds, but it could be difficult to fit the divan if it's a little different.
Chicco's stylish bedside crib includes an adjustable mattress, a carry bag and a chic design. Its unique design includes a perforated base which increases airflow, as well as an array of height adjustments to accommodate your growing baby. It's also easy to clean and features an ideal storage area under the seat for nappies, wipes and your own favourite baby toys.