A Small Bedside Cot That Attaches to Your Adult Bed
If you want to keep your baby as close as possible at night without getting out of bed, a bedside crib is the best option. The fabric's breathable design means you can easily see your baby and they're easy to lower for those bleary-eyed 3am feeds.
Some also double up as a moses basket too.
What is a bedside cot?
A bedside crib (also known as a bassinet or co-sleeper) is a baby crib that can be attached to your adult bed, allowing your infant to sleep comfortably next to you. This is a type of co-sleeping that is safe and does not increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) like bedsharing, and can help you build a bond with your new arrival.
The cots usually have a side that can be raised, so you can easily reach your baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting. This is especially useful for mums recovering from the c-section. Many are portable or foldable which means you can use them for trips and as a temporary solution for newborns who aren't quite ready to move into a crib that is large enough.
If you're looking for a bedside crib Look for a crib with a breathable mattress and a cover to shield your infant from the stains. It is also advisable to pick up some baby-safe add-ons like a blanket, teether and cuddly toy.
If you're looking for a more long-term option, some cribs come with conversion kits that allow you to turn them into a cot or toddler bed when the time comes. This is a great option for extending their lifespan and making the transition smoother. Some have a removable section at the top that can be converted into the bassinet. Others can be used with either a regular adult bed or a high-rise bed. This is a great option for families who are planning on frequent travel or transferring between bedrooms throughout the night. Take into consideration the dimensions of your room to ensure you fit comfortably in the crib. Many cribs come with risers which can be used to create an incline to accommodate babies with reflux.
The Joie Roomie Glide
They are known for their high-end baby products, English brand Joie has entered the world of bedside cosleeper cribs with the Roomie Glide. It is designed to aid parents in bonding with their infants while they sleep together, without sharing a bed this co-sleeper is packed with features that make parent-baby bonding easy, safe and enjoyable.
One of the most important features is a soft rocking motion that can be activated with the push of an button. This gentle rhythm can soothe your baby to sleep without disrupting their normal sleep patterns. This is great for older babies or toddlers who have difficulty settling down. It can also aid with digestive issues such as reflux and colic.
The crib can be locked into it once the rocking is done to stop it moving and can also be secured on the bed's side by a strap and clip attachment. This makes the crib solid and secure and allows you to sleep comfortably without fearing that your child will slide off into the middle. The rounded cocoon shape comes with soft padded sides and double mesh windows at both ends to allow plenty of airflow while keeping your baby secure.
The mattress comes with a firm and comfortable and has a removable cover. The aluminum frame is lightweight, making the crib very lightweight and easy to set up. The four rubber-covered wheels lockable ensure that the crib does not leave marks on your flooring and are easy to move. It is easy to clean using fabric wipes and is simple to tote in a backpack, making it perfect for long-term time away from home.
The Tutti Bambini CoZeeAir
This premium model is designed to be a safe, next-to-me-crib from birth to 6 months. It features bars with rocking for easy mobility and castors. The premium airflow mattresses offer an ideal sleeping surface while the ventilation panels keep your baby cool. There are 6 different height settings, including an incline setting that can help with reflux and congestion.
In contrast to other cribs for bed, which can be a nightmare to clean due to their endless stream of dribble and snot, the Tutti Bambini CoZeeAir comes with a wipe-clean lining and fabric that can be washed in the machine. Plus, it has an upper bar that can be easily adjusted for nighttime feeds without needing to search for zips in the dark.
Anna discovered that the CoZee was a safe and comfortable sleep space for her newborn. She was delighted the fact that it didn't roll like other models, so it didn't wake her at night when she was trying to comfort her baby during feedings. She also enjoyed that the side was lowered so that she didn't have to reach over her partner to pull the baby out to feed her at night.
The CoZee is available in charcoal or oak and is a stylish option for any bedroom. It looks more like an elegant piece of furniture than some of the other cribs we've tested, which can appear quite utilitarian. It's also quite light at 11kg, and comes with a carry-on case, so you can take it with you on vacation or when you are moving home. The only extras you need to buy are a fitted waterproof sheet and a safety strap for co-sleeping. The instructions and illustrations are simple to follow once you open the box.
The Maxi-Cosi Lora
The Iora is a bassinet designed for infants designed to help parents feel connected with their infant while they sleep. It adjusts up and down and can be moved through three slide positions to fit next to the bed of the parent or in the corner of the room, so that the baby is always close to the parent's side. The mesh siding lets air flow through, and allows you to see your baby quickly. You can also store extra pajamas or supplies in the large basket beneath.
Unlike some other smaller bedside crib with changing table cribs, the Iora folds flat and comes with a carry-on bag to allow it to be carried anywhere. Our mom testers were able to move it from room to room and believed it was a great size for a small bedside cot that was not too big or small. They also appreciated the large storage basket which is ideal for stowing nappies or other bedding items.
This is a great option for parents who are looking to sleep in a co-sleeping arrangement but don't want to share their beds or whose partner may have mobility issues, like arthritis or back pain. Our mums who tested it were thrilled to be able to easily access their child while in the Iora and that it had an optional reflux incline that helped reduce gas.
Our mums appreciate the fact that it complies with NICE guidelines which state that you should place the baby in a crib or Moses basket on its own (with no blankets, toys, pillows, etc). The mattress is also firm and comfortable for babies, and sheets are readily available. It isn't as light as other cribs that are smaller, though it is a good choice if you are looking for something lighter and easier to move around with, look at other options in our list.