Bedside Crib and Cot
A bedside crib or cot may be easily reached for night feedings and for comforting. Most feature adjustable heights and a firm, flat, breathable mattress to help your baby sleep comfortably and safely.
Mum test subject Jasmin was impressed by the crib's size, saying it's much larger than the standard Moses baskets, but it's not too large. She also appreciated the mesh windows with multiple mesh and the 30-second open-fold mechanism.
Ease of access
A bedside crib, also referred to as a bedside bassinet is a specifically designed sleep solution that allows babies to sleep close to their parents without the risks of co-sleeping (like rolling off the parent's mattress or getting suffocated). It can be particularly helpful for mothers who have had C-sections as they recover, and will help them get into the swing with their child.
While it's a fantastic opportunity to begin sharing your space with your baby however, you should be aware of certain aspects when buying one. As a general rule you should ensure the crib has a wall of 12cm to stop your baby from rolling out and over onto your side of the bed. It should also have a convenient drop-down side that allows you can reach out and take your child in the night for feeding or comforting, and it's essential that it sits well next to your bed.
bedside crib and travel cot -rated bedside crib we've seen is the SnuzPod 4, which is a best seller worldwide for its Scandi-inspired design and a variety of features, including the 'ComfortAir' technology that helps regulate temperature and maximise airflow. Other popular choices 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 in to take baby in or comfort them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has an edge that is collapsible, which you can easily fold by hand. It will then automatically return to its upright position.
All cribs we've analyzed for you here will be able to fit comfortably next your bed and meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which introduced tougher standards for these types of cribs. Some old versions of cribs that don't meet the strict standards are available for sale but they'll slowly disappear from stores as manufacturers replace them with newer, safer models. Make sure you check the crib you're considering buying meets this new safety requirement to ensure it is safe.
Safety
Providing a safe and secure sleeping space is essential for your baby's wellbeing and health. When selecting a crib or cot, choose one that is affixed to NHS safety standards and has been approved by childcare experts such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical sleep solution that lets parents keep their infant close to them, encouraging bonding and reassuring the baby that they're not in danger.
When you're looking for a bedside crib, bassinet or cot, make sure that it has a sturdy mattress, and there are no gaps that could cause suffocation or entrapment. Also, ensure that the crib frame is strong and that the slats are spaced not more than 2-3/8 inches apart. Make sure the mattress is in compliance with the size requirements set by EN 16890 and has been tested for strength, stability and firmness.
Avoid putting pillows, blankets and stuffed toys in your baby's crib unless they're specifically designed for sleep. Similarly, steer clear of any sleep wedges, or positioners since they're not clinically proved to improve sleep, and could pose a risk to your infant.
It's best to purchase a crib with fixed sides than one with drop sides. They are safer. It is also recommended to avoid cribs with mobiles attached because they can be strangulation and choke risk when the cord or string becomes entangled around the neck of your baby.
Make sure the crib hardware is free from any sharp edges which could harm or scratch your baby. Make sure that the crib mattress and bedding are properly secured and there aren't any broken or loose screws or brackets. Check for the JPMA certification seal. This means that the crib was tested and is in compliance with safety standards. You can find the seal by searching for a product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.
Practicality
If you'd like to be near your baby but do not want to share the same bed, a bedside crib is a great alternative. These beds, sometimes referred to as co-sleepers or 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 comforting. This close connection helps strengthen the bond between parent and child, and helps to promote healthy sleep patterns and parents who are able to respond quickly to any wake-up needs during the night.
Many cribs have an extra side panel that can be removed at night and left. This allows you to observe and feed your baby, or change their nappy during the night. Certain cribs feature a mesh wall that zips down and can be placed into the mattress to provide additional security. This reduces the chance of duvets or blankets falling onto your baby. The SnuzPod 4, for instance, is made of breathable material that boosts airflow and reduces the risk of suffocation.
The majority of cribs have straps that let you secure them to the side of your bed or mattress It's important to make sure whether the straps included with your crib will fit your bed frame prior to buying - particularly if you have a divan bed as this might require more straps. Some cribs fold and can be stored away when not being used making them a great option for travel.
The best cribs are made with practicality in mind, and are often adored by new mothers who have had a c-section birth because it's easier to get access to their infant without having to leave the bed in the recovery. Some cribs can even be used by themselves, which means you can move them around the room as you need to, enabling you to keep your baby close throughout the day to encourage bonding and socialization. They are also a great way to make your baby feel more independent, as they'll learn to fall asleep without having you by their side and develop a self-sleeping routine.
Space
Bedside cribs are a secure and practical way to co-sleep. You can see and touch your child without leaving your bed. Some cribs also have incline settings that can help with congestion and reflux, while others feature practical under-seat storage for wipes as well as muslin squares. Make sure you choose a mattress specifically made specifically for your crib. Second-hand mattresses could be too flat or worn-out, thereby increasing the chance of SIDS.
In addition to providing easy access for night feedings and feedings, bedside cribs are ideal for mothers recovering from a C-section since they can be used even when still lying down. They can assist your baby become comfortable sleeping in their crib on their own and also help them gain independence. The wall they create between their bed and yours reduces the risk of suffocation.
There are a myriad of options, from budget-friendly models to top-of-the-line models. Some cribs are a bit more compact and can be folded to store away, whereas others come with a carry-on bag to take them on weekends away. Take into consideration the size of your bedroom and if your crib can fit. Your baby could be older than expected so don't purchase too small.
If you're seeking a crib that is simpler to assemble and is more affordable, the Cozee XL is one of the quickest to build during MFM tests and features an elegant oak base. It also features an anti-reflux incline setting and an opening side panel as well as being easy to clean. It's suitable for most beds, but it could be difficult to put in the divan if it's a little different.
If you're after a stylish crib for your bed that comes with the mattress as well as a carry bag This crib from Chicco is worth looking into. Its unique design features a perforated base which increases airflow, as well as a range of height adjustments for your growing baby. It is also easy to clean, and it comes with a handy under-seat storage space for nappies as well as wipes.