Bedside Crib and Cot
Built to be placed next to your bed A bedside crib and cot is easy to access for night feeds and comforting. Most cribs are adjustable in height, and a firm mattress that is flat and breathable. This helps your baby to sleep safely and comfortably.
Mum tester Jasmin was impressed by the crib's size, saying it's much larger than standard Moses baskets, but not too big. She also loved the mesh windows and the 30 second open-folding mechanism.
Ease of access
A bedside crib, also referred as a co-sleeper or bedside bassinet, is a specially designed sleep solution that allows babies to be close to parents without the risks of co-sleeping (like falling off the mattress of their parents or suffocating). It can be particularly helpful for mothers who have had C-sections while they recover, and can assist them in adjusting to the swing with baby.
Although it's an excellent method of getting used to sharing space with your baby, there are certain aspects to consider when purchasing one. In general it is best to ensure the crib has an enclosure of 12cm to stop your baby from rolling out and over onto the other side of the bed. It should have a drop-down section that is easy to reach, so you can grab your baby in the middle of the night, be it for comfort or feeding.
The top bedside crib we've seen is the SnuzPod 4, which is an extremely popular product worldwide due to its Scandi-inspired design and a variety of features, including the "ComfortAir" technology that helps regulate the temperature and maximize airflow. The HALO BassiNest Essentia is another popular choice. It has an adjustable sleeping area that swivels and a sidewall that can be easily removed so that you can reach inside to pick your baby up or comfort them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has an edge that is collapsible, which you can easily fold using your hands. It will then automatically return to its upright position.
The cribs we've reviewed can easily be placed on top of your bed. They also meet the new BS EN1130 safety standards, which have higher standards for this type of crib. There are a few cribs on the market that don't conform to these standards, but as manufacturers replace older models with safer models, they'll gradually disappear from the stores. Check that the crib you're considering buying meets the new safety standard.
Safety
Providing a safe and secure sleeping environment is crucial to your newborn's health and wellbeing. Find cots or cribs that meet NHS safety standards, and have been approved by childcare professionals, such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. 4-in-1 bedside crib are a secure practical option for parents who want to keep their children close. This encourages bonding and gives them assurance that they are not in danger.
When you're looking for a bedside crib bassinet or cot, ensure sure it has a solid mattress and no gaps that could cause suffocation or entrapment. Make sure the crib frame is solid and the slats don't exceed 2-3/8 inches. Verify that the mattress is in compliance with EN 16890 and that it has been tested to assure strength, stability and firmness.
Avoid putting pillows, blankets, and stuffed toys to your baby's crib unless they're specifically designed to be used for sleeping. Avoid sleep wedges and positioning devices, as they have not been scientifically proven to help your baby sleep better. They could also be dangerous.
It's better to buy a crib with fixed sides, rather than drop sides. They are safer. It's also worth avoiding cribs with mobiles attached as they could pose strangulation and choking risk if the string or cord is entangled around your baby's neck.
Finally, be sure to check the crib's hardware free of any sharp edges that could scratch or injure your child. Ensure that the crib bedding and mattress is properly secured, and that there aren't any loose or broken brackets or screws. Find the JPMA certification seal. This signifies that the crib has been tested and is in compliance with safety standards. Look for the seal on JPMA Certification Directory by selecting a product type.
Practicality
If you'd like to sleep near your baby but do not want to share the same bed the bedside crib is a great alternative. Also known as co-sleepers or bedside bassinets, these babies cribs attach to the sides of the bed parents sleep in, giving them a private place to rest but still within reach for night feeds and comforting. This close contact strengthens the bond between parents and children and helps promote healthy sleeping patterns. Parents can also react promptly to any wake-related needs throughout the night.
Many cribs come with a side panel which can be taken down at night and then left. This lets you observe and feed your baby, or change their nappy during the night. Some cribs even come with a unique mesh wall that zips down and can be zipped up and tucked into the mattress to provide extra security, eliminating any chance of blankets or duvets falling over your baby. The SnuzPod 4, as an example, has a breathable material that boosts airflow and reduces the risk of the suffocation risk.
Most cribs can be attached to your bed or mattress with straps. However, you must check that the straps included with the crib are compatible with the bed frame. This is especially important if you have a divan-style bed. Some cribs can be folded and put away when not in use, making them a great choice to travel with.
The best cribs are made with practicality in mind, and are frequently adored by mothers who've had c-section births, as it's easier for them to reach their infant without having to get out of bed during recovery. Some cribs can be moved around, so you can move them around as you need to. This allows you to keep your child close all day long, encouraging socialisation and bonding. They're also a great way to help your baby feel more independent, as they'll be able to fall asleep without having you by their side and establish a routine for self-sleeping.
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 have an inclined setting that can help with congestion and reflux. Others feature under-seat storage to store muslin and wipes. Always use a mattress 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 risk of SIDS.
In addition to providing easy access to food at night, bedside cribs are great for mothers who are recovering from a C section as they can be used even when lying down. They can also assist your baby adjust to sleeping alone in their crib and help them develop independence, while the barrier they create between your bed and theirs reduces the chance of suffocation.
There are a variety of options to choose from that range from budget-friendly to premium. Some cribs fold and stored away, while others come with a travel bag that you can take them away for weekends. You must also think about the size of your bedroom and whether the crib will fit - be aware that your baby could outgrow it sooner than you anticipate, so don't go too small.
The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and comes with a stylish oak base. It has an anti-reflux setting, a side panel that opens and is easy to clean. It's suitable for most beds, however you might be unable to install it on a divan.
If you're looking for a chic, premium crib for your bed that comes with the mattress as well as bags for carrying, this option from Chicco is worth a look. Its unique design includes an open base that increases airflow, as well as a range of height adjustments to accommodate your growing baby. It's also incredibly easy to clean and has an ideal storage area under the seat for wipes, nappies and your own favourite baby items.