How Do You Explain Bedside Crib And Cot To A Five-Year-Old
Bedside Crib and Cot
Built to be placed next to your bed, a bedside crib and cot is easily accessible to feed your baby at night and provide comfort. The majority of them have adjustable heights as well as a firm, flat air-conditioned mattress that helps your baby sleep comfortably and comfortably.
Jasmin the mother test participant, was impressed by the size of this crib. She said it was larger than the standard Moses baskets, but not too big. She also liked the mesh windows with multiple mesh and the open-fold mechanism that opens every 30 seconds.
Easy access
A bedside crib, also referred as a co-sleeper, or bedside bassinet is a specifically designed sleep solution that allows babies to sleep close to their parents without the dangers of co-sleeping (like falling off the mattress of their parents or being suffocated). It can be particularly helpful for mothers who have had C-sections while they recover, and will aid them in getting into the swing with their baby.
While it's a great opportunity to begin sharing your space with your child, you should consider certain things when purchasing one. You will want to ensure that the crib has at minimum a 12cm wall or barrier to keep your child from falling over and onto your side. It should have a drop-down side that is easy to reach, so you can reach your baby in the middle of the night, be it for comfort or feeding.
The most highly rated crib for bedside use is the SnuzPod 4. It's a worldwide bestseller thanks to its Scandi design and a wealth of features. It has the ComfortAir technology, which regulates temperature and maximises airflow. Other popular choices include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, which has a swiveling sleep area and a drop-down sidewall that can be lowered effortlessly to allow you to easily reach inside to take baby in or comfort them. The Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsible side that lets you simply push it down using your hands and it will automatically return to its upright position.
All cribs we've analyzed for you here can be easily placed next to your bed and are compliant with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard that introduced stricter standards for these types of products. There are some older cribs that aren't up to these standards are available for sale but they'll slowly disappear from stores as manufacturers replace them with new safer models. Make sure the crib you're thinking of purchasing is safe and meets the latest safety standard.
Safety
A secure and safe sleeping environment is crucial to your baby's wellbeing and health. When choosing a crib or cot, always choose one that is affixed to NHS safety standards and has been endorsed by childcare experts like the director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical sleeping solution that allows parents to keep their infant close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring them that they're not in danger.
If you are looking for a bedside crib, bassinet or cot, make sure it has a firm mattress, and there are no gaps that could cause suffocation or entrapment. Also, make sure the crib frame is sturdy and that the slats are spaced at least 2-3/8 inches apart. Verify that bedside cot bed is in accordance with EN 16890, and that it has been tested to ensure solidity, stability, and firmness.
It is also recommended to avoid putting any items to your baby's crib that increase the risk of suffocation, entrapment or strangulation, such as blankets, pillows and stuffed animals, unless they're specifically designed for sleeping. Avoid sleep wedges and positioners, as they have not been scientifically proven to aid your baby's sleep. They could also be dangerous.
It's a good idea to buy a crib that has fixed sides instead of cribs with drop sides, as they are considered to be safer. Avoid cribs with mobiles attached, as they can pose a strangulation and choking risk to your child in the event that the cord or string gets caught in.
Finally, be sure to ensure the crib's hardware free of any sharp edges which could hurt or scratch your baby. Make sure that the crib mattress and bedding are properly secured and there aren't any loose or broken brackets or screws. You should also look for a JPMA Certification seal, since this indicates that the crib has been tested and is in compliance with the highest safety standards in the industry. You can locate the seal by searching for a particular product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.
Practicality
A bedside crib could be an ideal option if you wish to be able to sleep next to your child but not in the same bed. Also called co-sleepers, or bassinets for bedside, these infants' beds attach to the side of parents' bed, giving them a private space in which to sleep but still within reach for feedings at night and comforting. This close connection helps strengthen the bond between parent and child, and also encourages healthy sleep patterns and parents who are able to respond quickly to any waking demands during the night.
Many cribs have a side panel which can be taken down at night and then left. This lets you observe and feed your baby, or change their nappy at night. Some cribs even have a zip-down mesh wall that can be zipped up and then tucked into the mattress for additional protection, thereby reducing the chance of blankets or duvets falling over your baby. The SnuzPod 4, as an instance, has a breathable material that boosts airflow and decreases the chance of suffocation.
Most cribs can be attached to your mattress or bed by using straps. However, you should ensure that the straps supplied with the crib will fit your bed frame. This is especially crucial if you have divan-style beds. Some cribs are foldable and can be stored when not in use, making them an excellent option for those who travel.
Some cribs can be used as their own which allows you to move them around the room as needed. This lets you keep your baby close throughout the day, fostering bonding and socialisation. Some cribs are portable, which means you can move them around as you want to. This lets you keep your child close throughout the day long, encouraging socialisation and bonding. They're also a great way to make your baby feel more independent, as they'll be able to sleep without you with them and establish a routine for self-sleeping.
Space
Bedside cribs offer a safe and practical way to co-sleep. You can observe and touch your child without leaving your bed. Some cribs have an inclined setting that helps with reflux and congestion. Others have storage under the seat to store wipes and muslin. Always use the mattress made specifically for your crib. Second-hand mattresses could be too flat or worn-out, thereby increasing the chance of SIDS.
In addition, they provide easy access to food at night, bedside cribs are great for mums recovering from a C section as they can be used while still laying down. They can assist your baby learn to sleep in their crib alone and also help them gain independence. The barrier they create between their bed and yours minimizes the chance of suffocation.
There are plenty of options to choose from, from budget-friendly to high-end. Some cribs are a bit more compact and can be folded up to be stored away, while others come with a handy travel bag that allows you to take them on weekends away. You should also consider the size of your room and whether the crib will fit - be aware that your baby could grow out of it earlier than you expect so don't get too small.

The Cozee XL crib is easy to put together and has a stylish oak base. It also has an anti-reflux tilt setting and opening side panel, plus it's easy to clean. It's suitable for most beds, but you may be unable to install it when you have a divan.
Chicco's chic bedside crib comes with the mattress, a carrying bag and a chic design. It features an exclusive design that has a perforated bottom that increases airflow. It also features a range in height adjustments for your growing child. It's also incredibly easy to clean and comes with an ideal storage area under the seat for wipes, nappies and your own favourite baby items.