Bedside Crib and Cot
Designed to fit next to your bed A bedside crib and cot is easy to access for night feeds and comforting. The majority of cribs can be adjusted in height, and a firm mattress that is smooth and breathable. This helps your baby to sleep safely and deeply.
Jasmin the mother test participant, was impressed by the size of the crib. She said it was larger than standard Moses baskets but not too large. She also liked the multiple mesh windows and the open-fold mechanism that opens every 30 seconds.
Easy access
A bedside crib (also called a bedside bassinet or a co-sleeper) is a specially-designed sleep solution that allows parents to keep their children close, without the dangers that come with co-sleeping. It can be especially helpful for mothers who have had C-sections while they recover, and will help them get into the swing with baby.
While it's a great way to get used to sharing space with your baby, there are some aspects to be aware of when purchasing one. You will want to make sure that the crib has at minimum a 12cm wall or barrier to prevent your child from rolling over and onto your side. It should have a drop-down side that is easy to reach so that you can pick up your baby in the middle of the night, whether it's to comfort or feed.
The top-rated bedside crib we've seen is the SnuzPod 4. It's the top-selling crib worldwide due to its Scandi aesthetic and wealth of features, including a dedicated "ComfortAir" technology which helps to regulate the temperature and maximize airflow. Other popular options include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, that has a swiveling sleep area and a drop-down sidewall that drops down effortlessly so that you can easily reach in to pick up baby or soothe them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has a collapsible edge that you can easily collapse with your hand. It will then automatically return to its upright position.
All the cribs we've reviewed for you below will fit neatly next to your bed and comply with the new BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which introduced tougher standards for these types of products. There are a few cribs on the market that do not meet these standards, however, as manufacturers replace older models with newer safer ones, they will slowly disappear from the stores. Check that the crib you are considering purchasing meets this new safety standard.
Safety
Providing a safe and secure sleeping space is essential for your baby's health and well-being. Choose cots and cribs that meet NHS safety standards and have been approved by childcare professionals such as the director at the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are 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 buying an upholstered bedside cot, bassinet, or crib, ensure that it has a solid and flat mattress. Any gaps can lead to the suffocation. Make sure the crib frame is sturdy and the slats don't exceed 3/8 inches. Make sure the mattress is in line with EN 16890 and has been tested to ensure strength, stability and firmness.
It is also recommended to avoid putting anything to your infant's crib that increase the danger of suffocation, entrapment or strangulation like blankets, pillows, and toys except if they're designed for sleep. Additionally, stay clear of any sleep wedges or positioners as they're not clinically proved to improve sleep, and could pose a risk to your infant.
It's better to buy a crib that has fixed sides rather than drop sides. They are safer. Avoid cribs that have mobiles that are attached, as they can cause strangulation and choke risk to your child in the event that the cord or string gets caught in.
Make sure that the crib's hardware is free from any sharp edges that could cause injury or scratching to your baby. Make sure that the crib mattress and bedding are properly secured and there aren't any broken or loose screws or brackets. Also, look for the JPMA Certification seal because it indicates that the crib has been tested and is in compliance with the highest safety standards in the industry. Find the seal on JPMA Certification Directory by selecting a product type.
Practicality
A bedside crib is a good option if you wish to be able to sleep next to your child but not in the same bed. These beds, sometimes referred to as co-sleepers or bedside bassinets, attach to the side your bed. They provide you with a private place to sleep however, they are close enough to nighttime feedings and comforting. This close connection strengthens the bond between children and parents, and promotes healthy sleeping habits. Parents can also respond promptly to any wake-related needs in the night.
Many cribs have an additional side panel that can be detached and lowered at night so that you can see your baby and easily lift them out towards you for feeding, night diaper changes, or even soothing. Some cribs come with a mesh wall that zips down and can be tucked into the mattress for additional security. This eliminates the risk of blankets or duvets falling on your baby. The SnuzPod 4, as an instance, has a breathable material that boosts airflow and lowers the risk of suffocation.
It is possible to attach the majority of cribs to your bed or mattress with straps. However, you must check that the straps included with the crib will fit your bed frame. travel bedside crib is particularly crucial if you have a divan-style bed. Some cribs are foldable and can be put away when not being used making them a great option for travel.
The best cribs are made with practicality in mind and are frequently adored by mothers who have had a c-section birth, as it's easier to get access to their baby without having to leave the bed in the recovery. Some cribs are portable, which means you can move them around as you want to. This lets you keep your child near all day, promoting bonding and socialisation. They are also a great way to help your baby feel more independent, as they'll learn to sleep without you with them and develop a self-sleeping routine.
Space
Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical method to sleep with your child. You can see and touch your child without having to leave your bed. Some cribs have an incline setting that can help with reflux and congestion. Some have under-seat storage to store wipes and muslin. It is recommended to use a mattress that is specifically designed for your crib at night as second-hand mattresses are more likely to be flat or worn out, increasing the risk of SIDS.
In addition to offering easy access to food at night, bedside cribs are great for mothers 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 own crib and help them develop independence, while the barrier they create between your bed and theirs reduces the risk of being suffocated.
There are a lot of options to choose from, from budget-friendly to high-end. Some cribs can be folded and stored away while others come with a travel bag that you can take them on weekends. You should also consider how big your bedroom is and if the crib will fit - be aware that your baby could grow out of it earlier than you anticipate so don't make your choice too small.
If you're seeking a crib that is easier to assemble and is more affordable, the Cozee XL is one of the easiest cribs to build during MFM tests and features a smart 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 bedframes, but it may be difficult to fit the divan if it's slightly different.
If you're after a stylish, premium bedside crib that comes with an adjustable 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 has an array of height adjustments to accommodate your growing baby. It is also easy to clean and comes with a handy under-seat storage space for nappies and wipes.