Bedside Crib Vs Cot
A bedside crib (also called a co-sleeper) allows your baby to rest close to you during the night. It is essential to adhere to the official safe sleeping guidelines from 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. It's also easy to move around due to its slim frame.
Safety
Many new moms desire the intimacy of their infant while they sleep, and bedside cribs can be a safe alternative for families who want to co-sleep. However, funny post recommends that parents should use a separate sleeping surface for their baby and avoid sharing a bed in order to reduce the risk of suffocation, overheating and rollovers.
It is crucial that when selecting a crib for your baby, you check to ensure that it complies with European safety standards. Also, make sure that the crib is compliant with Lullaby trust codes of safe sleep to ensure that he is sleeping in a place where he is secure and safe. Bedside cribs that have adjustable height settings can be matched to the parent's bed frame and reduce the risk of gaps in which babies could become trapped. They also come with a sturdy flat mattress that is ventilated and designed to help promote healthy sleeping habits.
Most bedside cribs have a panel that can be lowered, so that you can safely see your baby during the night. This means you can comfortably comfort them, feed and monitor them without getting out of bed. This can be especially helpful for mothers recovering from c-section births, or those with limited mobility. Some models, like the SnuzPod4, offer the ability to tilt your reflux for babies who have reflux or digestive issues.
A panel that is lower will reduce the risk of your baby falling over the edge of the bed. A lot of these panels have mesh sides that prevent duvets and pillows from falling into the crib. This is important for reducing the risks of SIDS. Babies who roll on their backs are more prone to suffocate.
Keep dummies and soft toys away as they can be risky for suffocation. To keep your baby safe and secure, make sure that the crib mattress is breathable and check regularly for any gaps or loose sheets. When your baby is able to sit up or stand (typically at around 6 months), they will need an cot, or a different sleeping arrangement that is suitable. If you're worried about this transition, it's important to speak with your GP or health care professional.
Comfort
The best cribs for bedside use offer a safe and comfortable environment to sleep your baby. Built to sit beside your bed, they let you take care of your baby without having to get out of bed. They also give you the opportunity to bond with your infant in those precious early months. This sense of security will help establish a positive bedtime routine and improve the quality of sleep for your baby.
Your child should be kept in a crib near the bed until they reach 6 months or can stand up independently. At this point, it is time to change them to an older cot. Bedside cribs can be used to accommodate your child up to this age, but it is important to be sure to read the instructions for the product.
When selecting a bedside crib be sure it adheres to EN 1130 safety standards and is compatible with your bed (most can be attached to a standard bed frame but you must always verify the exact dimensions). It is also important to ensure that your chosen bedside crib has a firm and flat mattress that is breathable - this is vital for baby's health.
The Chicco Next2me side sleeper is a top pick among our mom testers. It comes with a height adjustable base that can be used as a standalone crib or attached to a bed. It is light and easy to put together. It also provides great value for the 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 an accessory that attaches to the side of the bed. This allows you to keep your child close all night long without the danger of co-sleeping, which isn't recommended by the NHS or the Lullaby Trust. They've seen a rise in popularity recently with mothers looking for a way to bond with their baby while also being secure.
They usually come with the lowering panel, which you can use to safely see and touch your baby, and some that let you keep the panel down at night to allow for the convenience of feeding your baby without fuss and monitoring. Some have the ability to tilt your baby's stomach, which many of our test moms appreciated for aiding digestion and alleviating discomfort for babies who are suffering from reflux or wind.
Many bedside cribs have adjustable height settings as well which allows you to place them on the same level as your mattress, which means there's no gap between the two that could allow baby to climb up or slide out. This is particularly beneficial for those who are recovering from C-sections since it can be difficult to get into and out of bed.
The lowered sides also offer some privacy, making them ideal for parents who are worried about sharing a room with their newborn. It's important to remember that if you decide to sleep with your baby in a bedside crib or the cot, it's still a good practice to follow the official safe sleeping guidance and not share your own bed.
Before purchasing, you'll need to check that your bedside crib will fit your bed frame. Some cribs can be clipped onto bedsteads, while others are better suited for divan beds. Don't forget to buy the right mattress for your crib. They are typically sold separately from the crib, and must conform to the latest BS EN1130 safety standards.
Some bedside cribs also convert into toddler beds, which can add to the life of parents who do not want to purchase an additional cot for their older child. The SnuzPod4 is an model, featuring a slim, sleek frame that fits neatly into the corner of your bedroom, and provides plenty of room for your baby to rest comfortably. It's also easy to put together and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Convenience
A crib that is placed near the bed makes it easy to lift your child from bed to feed them, cuddle them and comfort them to sleep. A majority of cribs have a side panel that can be lowered down, so you can be able to touch and talk with your child without having to wake them to disturb their sleep. There are cribs that keep the panel down throughout the day which is ideal for new parents who may be recovering from a C-section and wish to keep their newborn close.
Some cribs have a tilt feature that can aid in colic or reflux. It's important to remember that tilting the crib should always be done with caution and only by a parent who is aware of their baby's medical history and requirements.
Another thing to think about is how easy the crib is to clean, and whether it's machine washable or you have to hand wash it manually. Some cribs come with waterproof covers that protect against leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. Some cribs also come with a storage bag, making them perfect for travel if you have to take your baby with you.
Also, you should consider the weight of the crib and if it's easy to move from room to room. Jasmine, our 2021 Mother & Baby Awards mum tester, described the red Kite Cozysleep with the crib as "just right size and light enough to be easily moved throughout your home." It also can be folded flat and comes with a bag for travel for trips to the grandparents."
If you're considering purchasing a crib for your bed We suggest you check out our full reviews and ratings of the top ones on the market, to ensure that you buy the most suitable model for your child and your lifestyle. Remember that while a crib may appear beautiful and stylish, it's crucial to keep in mind that your baby will soon outgrow its small size. You'll need to move your baby into an cot before they grow out of the crib.