What is a bedside crib?
Bedside cribs attach securely to the side of your bed so that your baby is close enough for you to reach out and lay a hand on them while you sleep.
Similar to a bassinet, they have a drop-down or removable side that lets you lift your baby without having to get out of bed, as well as adjustable feet that mean you can change it to suit the height of your bed. They’re also smaller than a normal cot, so it’ll feel extra-cosy for your baby.
Why choose a bedside crib?
Bedside cribs are a really safe way to sleep with your little one close to you. You and your baby will each get your own space to sleep in, but they’ll still be right by your side. As well as making it easier for you to comfort and feed your baby during the night, the bedside crib also helps you keep an eye on them. Chances are you’re more likely to notice if they’re feeling poorly or unsettled, or too cold or warm, which generally means they’ll be safer while they sleep.
When it comes to nighttime feeds, you’ll only need to sit up and reach over to pick up your little one, so you can soothe them quicker – not to mention the fact that you won’t be getting in and out of bed to go into a separate room, so it won’t disturb your own sleep as much.
What to look out for when shopping for a bedside crib?
Fit with your bed
Most bedside cribs come with safety straps that let you securely attach it to your bed, as well as adjustable height so it sits flush with your mattress. Think about the sides, too – do you want them to come off completely, or do you just need them to drop down so you can reach in and pick up your baby?
Portability
Do you want to keep your bedside crib in one place, or do you want to be able to move it around the house? Some models come with wheels or a removable bassinet so you can use it in any room you need to, while others can be packed up in a travel bag and taken on holiday with you.
Breathability
Mesh panels on the sides of your bedside crib will keep your little one cool, and help you keep an eye on them, too. Most cribs also come with mattresses – look out for breathable fibers and chemical-free fabrics that won’t irritate their gentle skin.
Extra features
Keep an eye out for bedside cribs that have storage underneath which is perfect for tidying away extra blankets and bedding. Different incline settings can be helpful if your little one suffers from reflux, and you can even get cribs that gently sway or rock them to sleep.
Our top pick
Our innovative Lua bedside crib makes it easier than ever to have your baby safely by your side. It’s got mesh fabric panels and a soft, breathable mattress. You can even use it around the house, thanks to the removable bassinet that simply clicks on and off. It is designed to be super-safe without needing to strap it to your bed to avoid any fuss when you need to move it into your living room. And thanks to the drop-down sides with an auto-return option, you can reach in and pick up your baby without having to take the side up and down.
We haven’t just thought about comfort and safety, either. The Lua has got a contemporary minimalist design that feels a little more grown up, so it won’t look out of place in your bedroom or around your home.
