A Bedside Crib That Turns Into a Cot
The bedside crib can be transformed into a crib for parents who want to keep their child close and accessible. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that you should always follow the safe guidelines for co-sleeping from The Lullaby Trust and NHS.
One MFM home test says that it's one of the easiest cribs for a new mother to put together, since it comes with clear directions and neat zippers to keep the pieces in place. It also has a stylish design.
Size
The size of the crib is a key aspect to take into consideration. You want to ensure that it is able to sit comfortably on your bed and is easy to access especially when you're recovering from a C-section. Some bedside cribs can attach directly to your bed and include the safety barrier, which makes it easy for you to reach baby and also stops the baby from rolling off your mattress (in line with safe co-sleeping guidelines).
Other cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that slides down at night, offering you a safe place for your newborn to rest. This is a great option for parents who are worried about suffocation or the alleged risk SIDS. But, it is important to keep in mind that you should not sleep with your child in a co-sleeper until they are at least six months old.
If you're seeking a bedside crib that can also be used as a cot, look for one that has a breathable mattress and mesh side panels you can see your baby through. This will help keep baby cool at night and let you monitor them without having to disturb them. Make sure you pick a crib that is designed to fit your bed. Some cribs are only compatible with divan beds, and others can be slid onto an existing bed frame.
The Snuz Pod is a best-selling bedside crib that can be converted into a cot for up to 18 months making it the most versatile choice for new parents. It's easy to assemble, quick to attach to your bed, and comes with a travel bag. Its "ComfortAirTM" technology boosts airflow, regulates temperature, and ensures a restful sleep for your baby. It can also tilt, which is a great feature for babies suffering from reflux or colic, however it is important to use this feature with care and follow the advice of your GP or health professional. Many MFM test subjects appreciate its swivel feature that allows you to reach the baby without disturbing the baby.
Safety
If used correctly, an in-bed crib that transforms into a cot can be an ideal option for co-sleeping. These cribs attach on the side of your mattress, allowing you to reach your baby securely to feed them and soothe them without having to leave your bed. They can also enhance your sleep and help you to establish healthy sleeping habits for your baby and you. But, it is essential to select a secure and comfortable crib that is in line with the appropriate safety standards.
Be sure to check whether the crib is certified by JPMA and meets British Safety Standards before you purchase it. It should be free of any potential hazards, like corners that could catch your baby's clothes and create a space in which they could be trapped. It should also be sturdy and not too soft to decrease the risk that your baby may suffer from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or be suffocated.

Examine the mattress of your crib for any rips or gaps that could increase the chance of entrapment. Contact the manufacturer if you find any. They may have an repair kit or replacement. You should also regularly check the crib's screws and bolts to ensure they are in good shape and tight.
Also, keep the crib's vicinity free of duvets, pillows and other objects that could pose a suffocation risk. Also, you should use a breathable mattress and test regularly the mattress's firmness to prevent from suffocation.
When your baby is ready to go to a regular bed you should replace the crib's mattress and remove it from the wall. This will allow your baby to establish a regular sleeping pattern and reduce the risk of falling off the bed, which can result in suffocation or SIDS. You should also take down the crib once your child is able to sit or stand up. This is usually about six months. Then, you may want to think about a bassinet or a different sleeping arrangement.
Design
These baby sleepers are also referred to as bedside cribs and co-sleeping cots, attach to your bed to allow you to keep an eye on your child throughout the night or while they are taking a nap. Some come with a side panel that is able to be lowered so that you can lift your baby out of the crib. This allows you to have the intimacy of co-sleeping without risk and is a great option for mothers recovering from the c-section. Other cribs will pop up after you've taken your baby from the crib, which means they're safe to use as a separate cot for those first months after your child has become still a baby.
The latest version of Snuz's adored bedside crib is slim and sleek, which means it will fit neatly on top of all beds. It also has several technological features that ease your life, including ComfortAir air-tight technology as well as an optional reflux incline to help your baby with any issues they might be suffering from. It's also slightly bigger than other cribs for bedside use and has a higher sleeping height, meaning you won't have to worry about your the baby getting out of it too fast.
Another bedside crib that turns into a cot that's popular amongst MFM home testers is this model made by American safe sleep brand HALO. It has a simple, compact fold that's easy to move from room to room, which makes it ideal for holidays and trips to grandparents homes. Its 30-second open-fold mechanism makes it easy and quick to put together, while its sleek design means that there aren't as many tiny spaces for dust to collect as on other cribs with circular bars.
MFM's own mother tester Jasmine says it's a perfect size for her baby, with enough space for her to be able to reach her if she wakes up during the night. She also appreciates that the mattress is firm. Other crib mattresses can be too soft or lose their shape over time. It is crucial to remember that you will need to purchase a new mattress for your crib, so don't be tempted to buy a second-hand mattress as this can increase the risk of SIDS.
Cost
A bedside crib that converts into a cot could be a great option for new parents who wish to keep their infant close throughout the night. It can also make the night feedings and nappy changes in the early morning much more simple. But these useful accessories aren't always inexpensive. Fortunately, Black Friday 2024 is the perfect time to grab a great deal on one of these sleep aids.
If you are looking through your options, make sure you choose cribs made of breathable fabric and mesh side panels that will keep your baby cool during the summer. The most suitable cribs can be adjusted to fit your bed. Other considerations include the ease of cleaning (check for waterproof covers and if they are removable to wash) as well as age-appropriateness and additional features like rocking functions, an incline setting and the ability to convert into a classic Moses basket.
If you're looking to save money, look for an infant crib that doesn't require batteries or electricity, since these can add up. Choose the crib that won't outgrow your child before six months. Recommended Reading is a more affordable option than a full-size crib.
The top bedside cribs that can be converted into a cot comes with a guarantee of safety and are in line with the latest guidelines for safe sleeping. Make sure the crib is in compliance with the Lullaby Trust code for safe sleeping, and make sure it is equipped with the appropriate barrier to stop your baby from rolling off their mattress into yours. A lot of older cribs do not meet the new requirements, but there are still a number of them available on the market.
The bassinett design HALO BassiNest is a good choice for budget conscious families. This bedside crib comes with many useful features, including the swiveling feature, which allows you to lift your child toward you for feeding time or to soothe them to sleep. It is also an excellent alternative for mothers who are recovering from csections, since it's a more secure alternative to co-sleeping. The BassiNest is also more affordable than its rivals and comes in a variety of colors that will fit any style.