Bedside Crib Vs Cot
A bedside crib (also called co-sleeper) allows your baby to rest close to you during the night. It is essential to adhere to the official safe sleep 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 makes it easy to move from room room.
Safety
Bedside cribs are a great option for families who co-sleep. However, NHS Safe Sleep advice suggests parents make sure that they have a separate sleeping area for their baby and avoid sharing a bed in order to minimize the risk of suffocation, heat exhaustion and rollovers.
It is important that when selecting a crib for your infant, you verify to make sure it meets European safety standards. Also, ensure the crib is compliant with Lullaby trust codes of safe sleep to make sure that he is sleeping in a place that is secure and safe. Bedside cribs that have adjustable height settings can be matched with the parent's bed frame to decrease the chance of infants being trapped in gaps. They also come with a firm, flat mattress that is ventilated and designed to help promote healthy sleeping habits.
Most bedside cribs feature a panel which can be adjusted to let you be able to monitor your baby's health during the night. This means that you can comfortably soothe them, feed them and monitor them without having to get out of bed, which is especially beneficial for new mums recovering from c-section births or those with limited mobility. Some models, like the SnuzPod4, even offer a reflux incline function for babies who have reflux or digestive issues.
A lowered crib can reduce the risks of your child falling off the crib's edge, and many have mesh sides to stop stray duvets or pillows from falling in. This is essential for reducing the risks of SIDS. Babies who roll on their backs are more likely to suffocate.
It is recommended to keep any soft or dummy toys away from the crib because they can be suffocation hazards. A breathable crib mattress and regular checks for gaps or loose bedding are also vital to keep your baby secure. Once your baby is able to stand or sit (typically at the age of 6 months) they will require a cot, or another sleeping arrangement that is suitable for. If you're worried about this transition, it is worthwhile to talk to your GP or health care professional.
Comfort
The most suitable cribs for bedside use provide a secure, comfortable place for your baby to sleep. Designed to sit next to your bed, they will allow you to tend to your little one without having to get out of bed. They will also give you the opportunity to bond with your baby during the first few months of their life. bedside co sleeper cot of security can help establish positive routines for your night and enhance the overall quality of your baby's sleep.
Your child should be kept in a crib beside the bed until they reach 6 months or they are able to stand on their own. At the age of 6 months, you can switch to a traditional cot. Bedside cribs are able to accommodate your child to this age, but you must check the product guidelines.
When you are choosing a bedside crib be sure it complies with EN 1130 safety standards and is compatible with your bed (most will attach to a standard bed frame but it is important to verify the exact dimensions). Also, make sure that the crib has a firm, flat mattress which is breathable. This is vital for baby's health.
Our mom testers have been talking about the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib, which features a height-adjustable base that can be used as a standalone crib or attached to your bed. It is light and easy to put together. It also offers excellent value for money. Another one of our favorites is the Silvercross Voyager, which our testers appreciate for its versatility, breathable mattress and reflux incline function.
Space
A bedside crib is a sleeping space that is secured to the sides of your bed which allows you to keep your baby close throughout the night without having to worry about the risk of co-sleeping (which is not recommended by the Lullaby Trust and NHS). They've been gaining popularity with mothers looking for a way to bond with their newborn while also being secure.
They usually come with an incline panel that allows you to see and touch your baby, as well as some that let you put the panel down at night for the convenience of feeding your baby without fuss and monitoring. Some have a reflux incline function too that many of our test mums appreciated for aiding digestion and alleviating discomfort for those infants suffering from reflux or wind.
Many bedside cribs also come with adjustable height settings allowing you to place them at the exact same level as your mattress. This eliminates any gaps that could allow your baby to climb out or slip. 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 also provide some privacy, which makes them ideal for parents who are worried about sharing a space with their infant. However, it's important to remember that if you decide to sleep with your child in a crib that is near to bed or a the cot, it's still a good practice to adhere to the official guidelines for safe sleep and avoid sharing your bed.
You'll also need to make sure your bedside crib is compatible with your bed frame prior to buying it some that clip onto bedsteads while others are more suitable for divan beds. Don't forget to get a suitable mattress for your new crib which is typically sold separately to the crib and must meet the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety requirements.
Some bedside cribs also convert into toddler beds, which can provide to the life of parents who don't want to invest in an additional crib for their older child. SnuzPod4 is a sleek frame that can fit into the corner of any bedroom and offers plenty of space for your child to rest comfortably. It's also simple to assemble, and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Convenience
One of the most appealing aspects about a bedside crib is that it's simple to get your baby in and out of bed for nighttime cuddles, feedings and getting to sleep. Many cribs have an attached side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to communicate with your baby without disturbing them. Some cribs keep the side panel in place all the time. This is great for parents who have had C-sections who want to keep their baby close.
Some cribs are equipped with tilt features that can aid in colic or reflux. It is important to remember that tilting the crib should always be done with attention and only by a parent who knows their baby's medical history and their needs.
Take note of how easy it is to clean the crib, and if you are able to machine wash it or need to wash it by hand. Some cribs come with waterproof covers that protect against leaky diapers, baby sickness and dribbles. Some cribs also come with a storage bag, making them ideal for travel if you have to take your baby away with you.
Also, you should consider how heavy the crib is and whether it's easy to move from room to room. Jasmine who was our 2021 Mother & Baby Awards mum test subject, described the Red Kite Cozysleep with the crib as "just right size and light enough to be able to move throughout your home." It folds flat, and comes with a carry-on bag for trips to the grandparents.
If you're thinking of buying a bedside crib We suggest you read our complete reviews and ratings of the top ones on the market, to ensure you purchase the ideal crib for your child and your life style. Remember that while the crib may look beautiful and elegant, 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.