What Is a Bedside Crib?
A bedside crib is a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side, keeping baby close for a fuss-free feeding and comforting through the night. They are especially beneficial for new mothers recovering from c-sections.
It's also important to remember NHS advice and Lullaby Trust recommendations that a baby should be sleeping in their own home, separate sleeping space.
Designed to be placed on the opposite side of the parent's bed
A bedside crib is an ideal solution for parents who are new, and offers the convenience of keeping their baby close throughout the night. It lets them attend to their infant's needs without having to get out of bed. It also promotes bonding and secure sleeping routines. However, this form of sleeping with a partner has been linked to safety hazards, including suffocation, overheating, and falls. The NHS recommends that co-sleeping stop at the time your child turns six months old.
They are available in various sizes and are able to be adapted to fit most standard beds. They are lightweight and portable making them easy to transport from room to room. Some models come with the side wall, which can be lowered to make it easier for your baby's feeding area. Some models have a storage compartment underneath, perfect to store nappies, blankets and even clothes. One mom test subject described her SnuzPod as "perfect" for nursing her baby, saying that it was "a more spacious than standard Moses baskets and he felt comfortable in there and it wasn't crowded out of the way."
Many cribs come with adjustable height settings that can be adjusted to match the mattress of the parent. This helps to prevent the mattress from sinking and reduces the chance of gaps or loose components that could trap or injure your baby. A good mattress should also be breathable, providing your baby with a comfortable and restful night's sleep.
You'll have to cover your crib as well, to ensure it is protected from accidental spills and stains. It is recommended to use a mattress protector that is breathable, and it's worth investing in a set of baby-safe add-ons like a fitted sheet or teether. You'll also need a nappy holder and other items to ensure your baby is comfortable and safe in their crib for the first few nights.
Adjustable height settings
The bedside crib is a secure sleeping option for your baby. It can be adjusted to various sizes, allowing you to place it on either side of the parent's bed. It's portable, which means you can move it around if you need to. It's also available in a variety of sizes and colors to fit your space.
As your child grows, you will have to lower the crib mattress. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you lower the mattress to the floor when your child is around 35 inches tall. To make this easier you can use a towel or a pillow to add height to the mattress. You can use a ruler to measure the height of the mattress.
If you find that your child is falling out of the crib, it's time to lower it. It is crucial to do this to ensure your baby's safety. If your baby is thrown out of the crib and hits their head, it could be extremely dangerous for them. If they're bleeding or unconscious, it is best to call the emergency services immediately.
To lower the crib you must take off all screws on the foot. Then gradually lower the mattress until it reaches your desired level. The next step is to screw in the foot screws and make sure that the mattress is secure. Make sure you make use of stainless steel screws as these are safer than wooden screws. You should also use a baby/child-safe paint or lacquer. It is also an excellent idea to place an object that is large in the crib for additional stability.
Access to baby's room is easy
Bedside cribs are a great option for new parents who want to keep their child close by at night. The cribs are connected to your bed and appear like an infant bassinet. This lets you easily reach your baby for comforting or feeding. The Lullaby Trust, as well as the NHS, recommend that babies sleep in their cribs, because co-sleeping increases the risk of suffocation as well as sudden infant deaths syndrome.
Most models have an adjustable or drop-down side to allow you to reach your baby quickly and without the need to climb over tall obstacles. This is particularly beneficial for mothers who are recovering from a C-section. It is also crucial to ensure that the mattress is flat and airy. It should not be too soft as this can lead to overheating and cause death.
You should be looking for features such as a crib that can be folded flat to store. It should also have an impervious cover to stop any leaks or drips. Some cribs also come with additional features, such as rocking (great for babies with a tendency to be fussy) and tilting (although it should be used with caution).
It is also advisable to confirm that the crib is compatible with your bed frame and that it has a secure clip on system. Some cribs can be positioned directly on divan beds, whereas others have straps that wrap around the entire base of your bed. Some cribs aren't compatible with certain bed frames such as sleighs. Finally, it's a good idea to double-check that the crib is in line with the safety standards set out by British safety authorities.
Secure sleeping position
Bedside cribs are a safe option to sleep with your newborn, providing a separate space to sleep in. They are lightweight and simple to put together, making them an ideal choice for new parents who don't want to get out of bed to feed or comfort their infant during the night. Some models can swivel to make it easier for you to reach your baby. This feature is particularly useful in the event that you are recovering from a C-section.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that can be adjusted to let you feel and see your child at night. This is a feature that some mothers appreciate to cuddle. It is important to keep in your mind that you should not share your bed with a newborn regardless of whether they're asleep in a crib bassinet or bedside sleeping. It is distracting to have them close to you, and you might fall asleep while comforting or nursing them.
It's also important to place your baby on its back the bassinet or crib. This position lowers the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and also allows for optimal airflow. Avoid placing pillows, blankets or toys in the baby's sleeping area. These items could impede their breathing or create dangerous gaps.
Some bedside cribs are made for specific beds, so make sure you check the compatibility before purchasing one. For instance, some models are only compatible with a divan bed, and will not work with other types of beds. Double-check the mattress's size and that it doesn't contain any holes or lumps which could cause suffocation.
Tilt option
A tilt option in the top cribs for sleep allows you to gently rock your baby back and forward to soothe them when they wake in the middle of the night. This feature can be useful if you baby suffers from colic or reflux as it can help alleviate symptoms. You should use the tilt function with extreme care since it could put your baby in danger of rolling off the side of the crib which could cause injuries. If you have any concerns about using this feature, talk to your GP or health visitor.
The best cribs for bedside use come with a variety of features that can help new mums, such as an opening side panel as well as an anti-reflux tilt. The latest version of the Snuz Crib has all of these features plus extras such as a 360-degree swing, making it easier to reach your child and ensure that they are safe.
Another popular choice is the Chicco Next 2 Me crib that is simple to put together and will fit most beds. It comes with six height options and can be utilized in an incline position for those suffering from reflux. It has a washable bed and can be transported easily in the travel bag.
Other bedside cribs can be a challenge to fit as they are designed to be attached to divans and require longer straps. bedside crib vs cot how these attach to your own frame of your bed and if they're sturdy enough, as a poorly secured crib could slip and leave a gap that your child could be trapped. Make sure it is a good fit in your bedroom, and if the crib matches your decor.