Bedside Crib Vs Cot
A bedside crib (also known as co-sleeper) allows your baby to sleep close to you during the night. It is essential to adhere to the official safe sleeping guidelines of the NHS and Lullaby Trust.
Our mum testers love the SnuzPod's breastfeeding-friendly drop side, 30-second open and fold mechanism and reflux incline function. Additionally, its slim frame means it's easy to move from room to room.
Safety
Many new mothers desire the intimacy of their child while they sleep, and bedside cribs are a good option for families who are embracing co-sleeping. However, NHS Safe Sleep advice suggests parents make sure that they have a separate sleeping area for their child and avoid sharing a bed to reduce the risks of suffocation, overheating and rollovers.
When you are choosing a crib for your bed it is crucial to make sure that the crib meets European safety standards and adheres to Lullaby Trust codes for safe sleep, to ensure your baby is in a safe and secure environment. Bedside cribs with adjustable height settings can be matched to the bed frame of the parent which reduces the chance of gaps that infants may be trapped. The cribs are equipped with a flat, firm mattress designed to promote healthy sleep habits.
Most cribs for bed have an adjustable panel that can be adjusted so that you can be able to monitor your baby's health at night. This means you can easily soothe them, feed them and monitor them without needing to get out of bed. This is particularly beneficial for mothers recovering from c-section births, or those who are unable to move. Some models, such as the SnuzPod4, offer the option of inclining reflux for babies with reflux or digestive issues.
A lowered panel will also reduce the chance of your child falling over the edge of the bed. Many of these panels have mesh sides that stop duvets and pillows from falling into the crib. This is essential for reducing the chance of SIDS because babies who fall off their backs are more at risk of being suffocated.
Be sure to keep soft toys and dummies away from the area as they could pose risky for suffocation. To keep your baby safe and secure, make sure that the crib mattress is airy and regularly check for any gaps or loose sheets. Once your baby is able to sit up or stand, generally around 6 months old, they will need to move into a cot or other suitable sleeping arrangement. If you have any concerns about this transition, talk to your GP or a health professional.
Comfort
The best bedside cribs offer an ensconced and safe space for your baby to rest. They are designed to be placed next to your bed, they will let you take care of your baby without needing to get out of bed. They will also allow you to bond with your newborn during those crucial early months. This feeling of security will help you establish positive routines at night and enhance the overall quality of your baby's sleep.
Your child should be kept in a crib near the bed until they reach 6 months old or are able to stand independently. At the age of 6 months, you can change to a traditional cot. Bedside cribs can accommodate your child up to this age, but it is important to check the product guidelines.
When choosing a crib for your bed ensure that it is in line with EN 1130 safety standards and is compatible with your bed (most can be attached to a standard bed frame but it is important to verify the exact dimensions). You should also ensure that your chosen crib has a firm and flat mattress that is breathable - this is essential for the health of your baby.
The Chicco Next2me side sleeper is a favorite among our mum testers. It comes with a height adjustable base and can either be used as a standalone crib or attached to the bed. The crib is light and easy to set up. It provides great value for money. Silvercross Voyager is another of our favourites. Our testers are awestruck by its versatility, comfortable mattresses and the reflux incline feature.
Space
A bedside crib is a sleeping space that clips securely onto the sides of your bed, allowing you to keep your baby close throughout the night without the danger of co-sleeping (which is not recommended by the Lullaby Trust and NHS). They've seen a rise in popularity recently with mums looking for ways to bond with their newborn while also being secure.
They usually have a lowering panel, which you can use to safely be able to touch and observe your baby, as well as some that allow you to put the panel down at night for the ease of feeding and monitoring your baby in a relaxed manner. Some models also come with an incline feature for reflux, which was a favorite among many of our test subjects for reducing discomfort and aiding digestion for babies suffering from reflux or wind.
A lot of cribs for bedside have adjustable height settings as well, enabling you to position them at the same level as your mattress, so there's no gap that could let your baby climb or slip out. This is a big benefit for those recovering from C-sections, because it can be difficult to get into and out of bed while your body heals.
The lower sides provide privacy and are great for parents who are worried about sharing their room with a newborn. But, bedside co sleeper cot to note that if you opt to sleep with your baby in a crib that is near to bed or a cot, it's still best practice to adhere to the official safe sleeping guidance and not share your own bed.
Before buying it, you'll need to ensure whether your crib for bedside will fit your bed frame. Some cribs clip onto bedsteads, whereas others are better suited for divan beds. Don't forget to buy a mattress that is suitable for your crib. These are usually sold separately from the crib and should conform to the latest BS EN1130 safety standards.
Some bedside cribs can also be transformed into toddler beds. This is a great solution for parents who do not need to buy a separate crib. The SnuzPod4 frame is sleek that can be tucked away in the corner of any bedroom and provides ample space for your child to sleep comfortably. It's also simple to assemble, and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Convenience
One of the great things about a crib that is placed near the bed is that it's simple to get your baby in and out of bed for nighttime cuddles, feedings and getting to sleep. A majority of cribs have a side panel that drops down, allowing you to contact and talk to your baby without having to wake them completely or disrupt their sleep. Some cribs keep the side panel down all the time. This is perfect for parents recovering from C-sections and want to keep their baby close.
Some cribs have tilting features that may help with reflux or colic. It is important to remember that tilting the crib should always be done with care and only by a parent who is aware of the medical history of their child and needs.
Think about how easy it is to clean the crib, and whether you can machine wash it or have to hand-wash it. Some cribs have waterproof covers that guard against leaky diapers, infant sickness, and dribbles. Some cribs are equipped with an organizer bag, which makes them ideal for taking on trips in case you need to take your baby along.
It is also important to think about the weight of the crib be and whether it is simple to move it from one room to another. Jasmine the 2021 Mother & Baby Awards mum test subject, described the Red Kite Cozysleep with the crib as "just right size and light enough to easily move around the house." It folds flat and comes with a carry-on bag for trips to grandparents.
We recommend that you look through our reviews and ratings to ensure you choose the right model for your baby. Remember that while the crib may look beautiful and sophisticated, it's important to remember that your newborn will quickly outgrow its small size. You'll have to get your baby in an cot before they grow out of the crib.