Bedside Crib and Cot
Designed to fit next to your bed, a bedside crib or cot is easy to access for night feeds and comforting. travel cot bedside and a flat, firm, breathable mattress to help your baby sleep comfortably and safely.
Mum tester Jasmin appreciated this crib's size and said it's larger than standard Moses baskets but not too big. She also loved the mesh windows and the 30 second open-folding mechanism.
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A bedside crib (also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper) is a specially-designed sleep solution that lets parents keep their children close without the risks associated with co-sleeping. It can be especially beneficial for mothers who have had a C-section as they recover and can assist them in getting back into the rhythm of life with baby.
While it's a fantastic way to learn to share your space with your baby however, you should be aware of certain things when purchasing one. In general you should make sure that the crib has a wall of 12cm to stop your baby from rolling out and over onto the other side of the bed. It should have a drop-down side that is easy to reach so you can grab your baby at any time during the night, be it for comfort or feeding.
The top-rated bedside crib we've seen is the SnuzPod 4. It's an extremely popular product worldwide due to its Scandi aesthetic and wealth of features, including a dedicated "ComfortAir" technology which helps to regulate the temperature and maximize airflow. The HALO BassiNest Essentia is a popular choice. It features an adjustable sleeping area that swivels and an end wall that can be easily dropped so 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.
All the cribs we've reviewed for you below can be easily placed next to your bed and comply with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard that introduced stricter requirements for these kinds of cribs. There are some older cribs that don't meet these standards are available for sale however they'll gradually disappear from the market as manufacturers replace them with the newer, safer models. Check that the crib you are considering purchasing is safe and meets the latest safety standard.
Safety
Providing a safe and secure sleeping environment is crucial to your newborn's health and wellbeing. Look for cribs or cots that meet NHS safety standards, and have been endorsed by childcare experts such as the director at the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical sleep solution that allows parents to keep their infant close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring them they're not in danger.
When shopping for a bedside crib, bassinet or cot, ensure sure that it has a sturdy mattress, and there are no gaps that could lead to suffocation or entrapment. Make sure the crib frame is solid and the slats are not exceed 2-3/8 inches. Verify that the mattress meets the dimensions specified by EN 16890 and has been tested for strength, stability and firmness.
Avoid putting pillows, blankets and stuffed toys in your crib unless they're specifically designed to be used for sleeping. Avoid sleep wedges and positioning devices, as they have not been clinically proven to aid your baby's sleep. They can also be dangerous.
It is better to purchase a crib that has fixed sides rather than drop sides. They are safer. It's also worth avoiding cribs with mobiles attached because they could pose strangulation and choke risk if the string or cord is entangled around your baby's neck.
Be certain to verify that your crib's hardware is free of sharp edges that could cause injury or scratch to your child. Make sure that the crib mattress and bedding are properly secured, and that there aren't any loose or broken brackets or screws. Also, look for the JPMA Certification seal as this is an indication that the crib has been sample tested and is in compliance with the industry's highest safety standards. Find the seal on the JPMA Certification Directory by selecting a product category.
Practicality
If you want to sleep close to your baby but do not want to share a bed, a crib that is placed beside it is a safe alternative. These beds, sometimes referred to as bedside bassinets or co-sleepers can be attached to the side of your bed. They provide you with the privacy you need to sleep and are within reach of night feedings and comforting. This close connection helps strengthen the bond between the parent and child, and also helps to promote healthy sleep patterns, with parents able to react quickly to any waking needs throughout the night.
Many cribs come with an additional side panel that can be removed at night and left. This lets you observe and feed your baby, or to change their nappy at night. Some cribs have a special mesh wall that zips down and can be placed into the mattress to provide extra security. This reduces the chance of blankets or duvets falling onto your baby. The SnuzPod 4 for example is made of air-flow-enhancing fabric that allows for more airflow, reducing the chance of suffocation.
The majority of cribs have straps that let you secure them to the side of your mattress or bed, but it's worth checking that the ones included with your crib will fit your bed frame prior to buying especially if you have a divan bed as this might require longer straps. Some cribs are foldable and can be put away when not being used which makes them a great choice for traveling.
The best cribs are designed with practicality in mind, and are often adored by new mothers who've had c-section births because it's easier for them to access their baby without having to get out of bed during recovery. Some cribs can even be utilized independently, which means you can move them around the room as required and keep your baby close throughout the day too, encouraging bonding and socialisation. Cribs are also an excellent option for helping your baby feel more independent. They will be able to sleep on their own and develop routines.
Space
The bedside crib provides an efficient and secure way to sleep with your baby, allowing you to see and reach your baby easily without needing to get out of your bed. Some cribs also have incline settings that aid in reducing reflux and congestion, while others feature practical under-seat storage for wipes as well as muslin squares. It is recommended to choose a mattress that is specifically designed for your bedside crib - second-hand mattresses are likely to be flat or worn out, which can increase the chance of SIDS.
In addition to offering easy access for night feedings and feedings, bedside cribs are ideal for mothers recovering from a C section as they can be used even when still lying down. They can aid your baby to get used to sleeping in their crib on their own and develop independence. The separation they create between their bed and yours reduces the chance of being suffocated.
There are a lot of options, from budget-friendly to high-end. Some cribs are a bit smaller and can be folded to be stored away, while others come with a handy travel bag that allows you to take them on weekends away. You must also think about how big your bedroom is and if the crib will fit - keep in mind that your baby might outgrow it earlier than you expect, so don't go too small.
If you're looking for a crib that's simpler to assemble it's the Cozee XL is one of the quickest to build during MFM tests and features an attractive oak base. It also comes with an anti-reflux incline and a side panel that opens, as well as being easy to clean. It's suitable for most bed frames but you might be unable to install it on divan.
Chicco's stylish bedside crib includes the mattress, a carrying bag, and a chic design. Its unique design has a perforated base which increases airflow, and it comes with 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 other personal baby items.