What are the safety guidelines for bedside cribs?
In 2020 British Standards were updated for bedside cribs, which now need to meet the new crib standard BS EN 1130:2019, which means all cribs need to have a 12cm barrier or wall while in bedside mode.
Most modern cribs already have this feature, which prevents babies from rolling out of the crib and into their parents' bed. In the majority of models this barrier is easy to fold down when your baby wakes for a feed in the night.
According to baby sleep experts, The Lullaby Trust: "The safest cot for a baby is a clear cot. That means removing anything that isn’t essential. Babies need just two items in their cot:
It’s important to remove anything that isn’t essential because items such as toys, blankets and bumpers could cover their face and obstruct their breathing."
What are the benefits of a bedside crib?
Babies need to be close to their parents, especially when they’re very tiny, and it’s very normal for them to want to be close to you while they sleep. While some families opt to bedshare, many new mums want a bit of their own space at night, as well as the peace of mind a safe bedside crib brings.
With a bedside crib, you’re able to keep your baby within arms reach, breastfeed at night without getting out of bed, all with the reassurance that your baby is sleeping in a safe place designed for their needs.
Bedside cribs are especially good for mothers recovering from a C-section, as it’s so much easier and less strenuous to lift your baby out of a bedside crib than a cot or moses basket.
According to Millpond Sleep Clinic founder Mandy Gurney, RGN, RM, Dip HV:
"Many parents choose a Moses basket or crib in the early weeks because they’re smaller and cosier, and research suggests that a snug, womb-like sleep space may help newborns feel more settled and secure in the transition from womb to world.