10 Facts About Bedside Crib And Cot That Insists On Putting You In An Optimistic Mood

Bedside Crib and Cot

A crib or bedside cot can be easily accessed for evening feedings and for comforting. The majority of them have adjustable heights as well as an incredibly firm, flat and breathable mattress that will help your baby sleep comfortably and safely.

Mom test subject Jasmin was impressed by the crib's size, saying it's much larger than the standard Moses baskets, but it's not too big. She also appreciated the multiple mesh windows and the 30-second open-fold mechanism.

Ease of access

A bedside crib (also called 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 particularly helpful for mums who have had a C-section, as they recover and help them get back into the swing of life with their baby.

While it's a great way to learn to share your space with your baby but you must consider certain things when purchasing one. You will want to ensure that the crib has at least 12cm of wall or barrier to stop your child from falling over onto your side. It should also have a convenient drop-down side that allows you can reach over and pick up your little one in the night for feeding or comforting, and it's important that it fits neatly next to your bed.

The most highly-rated crib we've found is the SnuzPod 4, which is a best seller worldwide for its Scandi aesthetic and wealth of features, including the 'ComfortAir' technology that helps regulate the temperature and increase airflow. Other options that are popular include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, which includes a swiveling bed and a drop-down sidewall that slides down to allow you to easily reach in to take baby in or comfort them. The Joie Roomie Glide also has an edge that is collapsible, which you can easily fold by hand. 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 new BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which has introduced more stringent requirements for these types of cribs. Certain cribs that don't meet these strict standards are still available on the market but they'll slowly disappear from the market as manufacturers replace them with the new safer models. Check that the crib you're thinking of purchasing meets this new safety standard.

Safety

It is crucial to ensure an environment that is safe and secure for your infant. When choosing a crib or cot, always look for one that adheres to NHS safety standards and has been certified by childcare experts, such as the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a safe and practical solution for sleeping that allows parents to keep their child close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring them that they're not in danger.

If you are looking for a bedside cot, bassinet or cot, make sure that it has a sturdy mattress with no gaps that could cause the entrapment or suffocation. Also, make sure that the crib frame is sturdy and that the slats are spaced no more than 3/8 inches apart. Make sure the mattress is in compliance with EN 16890 and that it has been tested to ensure strength, stability and firmness.

It is also recommended to avoid putting any items to your baby's crib that increase the danger of suffocation, entrapment or strangulation, such as pillows, blankets and toys, unless they're specifically designed to be used for sleep. Similarly, steer clear of any sleep wedges, or positioners since they're not clinically confirmed to improve sleep and could pose a risk to your infant.

It's best to purchase a crib that has fixed sides than one with drop sides. These are safer. Avoid cribs with mobiles attached, as they can create a strangulation or choking risk to your baby in the event that the cord or string gets caught in.

Check that the crib hardware is free from any sharp edges which could harm or scratch your baby. Ensure that the crib bedding and mattress is properly secured and there aren't any broken or loose brackets or screws. Look for the JPMA certification seal. This means that the crib was tested and meets industry safety standards. Find  Cots For Tots  on the JPMA Certification Directory by selecting a product type.

Practicality

If you want to sleep close to your baby but don't want to share the same bed, a crib that is placed beside it is a great alternative. These beds, also referred to as co-sleepers, bedside bassinets can be attached to the side of your bed. They offer you an area to rest in peace and are within reach of night feedings and provide comfort. This close contact strengthens the bond between children and parents, and helps promote healthy sleeping patterns. Parents can also react promptly to any wake-related needs during the night.

Many cribs come with a side panel which can be taken down at night and left down. This allows you to see and feed your baby, or to change their nappy during the night. Some cribs even have a zip-down mesh wall that can be folded up and tucked into the mattress to provide extra security, removing the possibility of blankets or duvets falling over your baby. The SnuzPod 4 as an example has a air-flow-enhancing fabric that allows for more airflow, reducing the chance of being suffocated.

Most cribs come with straps that allow you to secure them to the side of your bed or mattress It's important to make sure that the straps included in the crib are compatible with your bed frame before buying - particularly if you have divan beds, because this could require straps that are longer. Some cribs can be folded and can be stored when not in use which makes them a great option for travel.

The best cribs are built with practicality in mind and they're often loved by mothers who have had c-section births, as it's easier for them to access their infant without having to leave the bed during recovery. Some cribs are portable, which means you can move them around as you need to. This lets you keep your child close throughout the day, promoting socialisation and bonding. Cribs are also a great option for helping your baby become more independent. They will be able to fall asleep on their own and develop a routine.

Space

The bedside crib offers a practical and safe way to sleep with your baby, allowing you to see and reach your baby easily without needing to get out of your own bed. Some cribs also have incline settings that can help with congestion and reflux as well as under-seat storage for wipes and muslin squares. Always choose a mattress specifically made for your crib. Second-hand mattresses could be too flat or worn out, which can increase the risk of SIDS.

In addition to offering easy access for night feedings, bedside cribs are great for mothers who are recovering from a C-section since they can be used while still lying down. They can also help your baby adjust to sleeping in their crib and develop independence, while the wall they create between your bed and theirs reduces the risk of suffocation.

There are a lot of options to choose from including budget-friendly and high-end. Some cribs are a bit more compact and fold up to store away, while others come with a handy carry-on bag to take them to the beach on weekends. Take into consideration the dimensions of your room and whether your crib can fit. Your baby could get out of it earlier than you think so don't purchase too small.

The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and has an elegant oak base. It also features an anti-reflux incline setting and opening side panel, as well as being easy to clean. It's suitable for most bed frames, however it might be difficult to fit if your divan is a little different.

If you're looking for a stylish crib for your bed that comes with an adjustable mattress and bags for carrying, this option from Chicco is worth considering. It features an innovative design that features an open bottom that allows for more airflow. It also comes with adjustable heights for your growing child. It is also easy to clean, and it includes a handy storage area for nappies and wipes.