It’s recommended that babies sleep in their parents’ bedroom for at least the first 6 months of their lives. But cots can be quite bulky and some babies crave the closeness that they get from their parents, making co-sleeper bassinets an ideal solution.
Co-sleeper cribs give you the best of both worlds; your baby is close by so you can comfort them in the night but you both have your own sleep spaces. My children hated traditional cots and wanted to be near me at all times so co-sleeper cribs gave me back the ability to sleep!
Table of Contents
- Plenty of features and stylish design
- Fits more beds than any other traditional bedside crib
- Includes features such as height adjusting, tilt and wheels
- Heavy and bulky to pack up and move away
- Patented lowering bedside wall and 360° rotation
- Not a true co-sleeper as doesn't attach to bed
Best Baby Co-Sleeper Bassinets
We’ve sourced and researched some of the most popular co-sleeping bassinets on the market. All of the hard work has been done so the only thing you have to do is choose the one that works best for you and your baby.
Snüz SnuzPod 4 Bedside Crib
The SnuzPod can be used from birth up to 6 months of age, or until the baby is mobile. This co-sleeper crib claims to fit more beds than any other bedside crib, making it the most versatile.
It has a new breathable system called “ComfortAir”, which helps regulate your baby’s temperature at night and increases airflow and breathability. Conveniently, it also has a lift off bassinet so you don’t need to buy a separate Moses basket for downstairs naps. In addition, it’s light enough for you to bring while visiting friends and family.
The slight incline feature is great for babies with reflux as it can ease their discomfort and help them get to sleep comfortably.
However, there are some potential negatives. For example, the SnuzPod doesn’t rock when the incline feature is in use which could be a dealbreaker for some parents. The side panel also has a zipper which can be noisy, this is definitely not something sleep deprived parents want to be dealing with after they’ve finally settled their baby. This crib isn’t the easiest one to put together but it’s not impossible.
Overall, it looks stylish and the many colour options will suit every bedroom theme. It’s in the mid-price range for co-sleeper cribs so it won’t break the bank either. We think this is the best overall choice for baby co-sleeper bassinets in the UK.
Check SnuzPod4 price: Amazon, John Lewis
Maxi-Cosi Iora Co-Sleeper
One of the best features about the Maxi-Cosi Iora co-sleeper crib is the large storage basket underneath. It’s the perfect size for a few nappies, some wipes and a change of clothes making it a lifesaver for the middle of the night nappy changes.
It also comes with a travel bag so wherever you take your baby, they’ll always have somewhere safe to sleep. The Iora comes with a comfortable mattress and the slide function means it’s easy to snugly attach the crib against your bed.
Unfortunately, this crib doesn’t have a rocking option and it doesn’t have wheels either meaning it could be difficult to settle your baby. Also, in order to fold it down, some parts need to be dismantled which isn’t ideal.
The Maxi-Cosi Iora is generally listed at a similar price than the SnuzPod. If you’re looking to compare the Maxi-Cosi Iora vs SnuzPod, the SnuzPod has more functions and comes in a variety of colours. So overall, we would prefer the SnuzPod as a baby co-sleeper bassinet.
Check Maxi-Cosi Iora price: Amazon, John Lewis
Shnuggle Air Bedside Crib
Most co-sleeper cribs available at the moment are only suitable for babies up to 6 months of age or until they can pull themselves up. The Shnuggle Air stands out because it gives parents the option to convert the co-sleeper crib into a standalone cot which will last until roughly 2 years of age.
Both sides of the crib are made of breathable mesh which lets parents to see their baby and offers better airflow while baby is sleeping. There’s a convenient storage basket underneath and the legs are easily adjusted to access the tilt function which is great for babies who suffer with colic or reflux.
On the downside, the Shnuggle Air is quite heavy and it doesn’t have wheels so once it’s set up, it’s not easy to move around without dismantling. Also, the safety catch makes a clicking noise when it’s used which could wake a sleeping baby.
The conversion kit for this crib is an additional cost but it’s still cheaper than it would be to buy a separate standalone cot and mattress. Combining the cost of the crib and the conversion kit, this would be one of the most expensive co-sleeper cribs available. But in the long run, it could save parents money and it’s a great investment to make.
We love the gender neutral colour and its very sleek design. Overall, this is a fantastic bedside crib option for expectant parents.
Check Shnuggle Air price: Amazon, and John Lewis
Halo BassiNest Swivel
Whether you’ve had a natural birth or a c-section, getting out of bed to tend to your baby can be a struggle. The innovative Halo BassiNest swivels 360 degrees so it’s easy to tend to your baby in the middle of the night.
Additionally, the side lowers so you always have easy access to your baby and it automatically returns to an upright position meaning there’s no fiddly zips or poppers to deal with.
It also has plenty of additional features, such as soothing sound functions, a footlight, vibration settings and a nightlight. All of which will help your baby (and you!) get a good night’s sleep.
However, the BassiNest isn’t a true bedside crib. There aren’t any attachments to fasten it to the bed, instead this is a standalone bassinet which can be pulled close to the parents bed. The base of it is quite large though and it might not be suitable for everyone’s bed and room size. It’s also heavy, weighing over 20kg, but it shouldn’t need to be moved around a lot.
Even though this isn’t a traditional co-sleeper bassinet, the BassiNest is a good alternative. It might not last as long as other ones available but the sound, vibration and light features are perfect for use with a newborn.
Check Halo Bassinet Swivel price: Amazon
Kinderkraft Bedside Crib NESTE UP
The Kinderkraft NESTE UP crib is one of the most affordable baby co-sleeper bassinets on the market. This doesn’t mean that it’s of lesser quality. Actually, it has many of same features that more expensive bedside cribs have.
It has 5 height settings and it also has the ability to tilt which is helpful for babies who suffer with colic or reflux. The wheels make it easy to manoeuvre around the house and there’s even storage pockets on both ends for night-time supplies.
However, it can be difficult to find alternative mattress sheets that fit. Although this is minor when you think about how cheap it is. In addition, there’s no rocking function either and, even though it does come with a travel bag, it’s heavy and bulky when packed away.
Overall, this is one of the most affordable bedside cribs at the moment and as it doesn’t compromise on features, it’s a great option to consider when buying your baby essentials.
Check Kinderkraft NESTE UP price: Amazon, and For Your Little One
Tutti Bambini CoZee Air Bedside Crib
While this is one of the most expensive bedside cribs out there, the Tutti Bambini CoZee Air has enough features that justify its high price point:
- It comes in 4 different colour options so there’s a style that will suit everyone’s tastes
- The wooden style frame gives it a modern feel.
- It has wheels which means it’s easy to move around and these can be switched out for rockers to be used while it’s a standalone crib.
- The storage shelf is handy for those late night nappy changes
- Even though it’s large, it’s a great option for a travel cot as it’s easily folded away.
The key downside to this crib really is its price point – it’s expensive compared to other ones available. However it has enough features to back it up. The frame is also wood effect which isn’t sustainable, something that’s important to some families.
If you’ve got the money to splurge, the Tutti Bambini CoZee Air is definitely a baby co-sleeper bassinet to consider. But there are cheaper alternatives that are practically identical.
Check CoZee Air price: Amazon
Nuby Sleep by Me Crib
Another of the cheaper co-sleeper cribs, the Nuby Sleep by Me has 7 height settings so it’ll fit almost any bed out there. It also has a tilt feature which most new parents will need to use at least once.
The difference between this crib and the other cheap ones we’ve featured in this article is that the Sleep by Me has a white noise and vibration functions which will be invaluable in helping babies drift off to sleep.
It’s also fully portable and comes with a carry case for parents who need somewhere safe for their baby to sleep while they’re away from home.
However, it’s quite a heavy crib so while it’s designed to be used as a travel cot, it might not be very practical. It also has quite a large footprint which, while it makes the crib sturdy, it could prove to be a problem in smaller rooms.
For the price, the Nuby Sleep by Me is fantastic. Don’t buy it as a travel cot though as the weight could be a problem. It’s a good size and the white noise functions are good additions. It’s definitely a co-sleeper bassinet to consider if you’re on a budget.
Check Nuby Sleep by Me price: Amazon
Chicco Next2Me Crib
When I had my second child, I knew I wanted to have a bedside crib to help with breastfeeding. I chose the Chicco Next2Me and it never failed me. It has 6 height settings and the feet fold in when it’s next to the bed which gives it a snug fit.
It’s also easy to fold and it comes with a storage and carry bag. We actually took it away with us a few times. If the side is fully zipped up, it can be used as a standalone cot and I actually moved it around the house with me if my baby was having a difficult day.
The mattress isn’t as comfortable as other bedside crib, so there’s always the option to add a topper which will give an extra layer of comfort. It’s also tricky to put together for the first time and the instructions aren’t the clearest.
However, I would recommend the Next 2 Me to all expectant parents who just want a bedside crib. It might not have as many features as some of the other ones on the market but it’s a simple to use, safe crib and my babies used it until they were around 7 months old.
Check Chicco Next2Me price: Amazon
SnuzPod 4 Bedside Crib
- Plenty of features, such as tilt, rock, and light lift-off bassinet
- Stylish design, with colour choices
- Fits more beds than any other traditional bedside crib
Bedside Co Sleeper Bassinets Buying Guide
What is baby co-sleeping?
Co-sleeping is where parents share a sleep space with their babies. This could be either by bed sharing or where the baby is in their own separate bed but in the same room. It’s a great option for mums who are breastfeeding.
Benefits and Risks of co-sleeping with a newborn
After spending 9 months growing inside their mum, babies who co-sleep still feel the comfort of being near their parents. It helps them to regulate their breathing and reduces the risk of SIDS when it’s practiced safely.
However, you decide to co-sleep, you mustn’t do it if you or your partner smoke or have consumed alcohol. It would be safer for your baby to be in their own cot if this is the case. Rolling onto your baby or accidentally smothering them with a pillow or blanket is more likely if the parents have been drinking.
One of the best resources in finding out how to safely sleep with your baby is The Lullaby Trust who offer free advice around co-sleeping. Another good place to look is the NCT website or this post from the NHS.
What to look for in a co-sleeper
The most important thing is whether or not the crib you’re choosing fits the style of bed you have. If you’re likely to be travelling with your baby, portability is an important factor. The crib should have good breathability and the mattress should be firm. Storage is also great as it stops you fumbling around for a clean nappy when you’re half asleep. The cost is also an important factor as we all have different budgets to work with. Choose one that gives you the most for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bedside Cribs
Are co sleepers safe for babies?
Some doctors will say that co-sleeping in the same bed with your baby is dangerous. But using a co-sleeper cot means that parents and babies can enjoy the benefits of co-sleeping while being safe and sensible.
Are co-sleeper bassinets worth it?
They are an expense for an item that only lasts around 6 months. However, if you’re planning on breastfeeding, co-sleeper bassinets are definitely worth it as they keep baby close by for those night-time feeds. They’re also beneficial for non-breastfeeding mothers. If your baby knows you’re close, it could be easier to settle them.
What age can baby safely co sleep?
You can co-sleep from birth as long as your baby is in their own sleep space. Put their feet at the foot of their crib, have no loose blankets or toys in there with your baby and use a sleeping bag. Most co-sleeper cribs have an upper age limit of 6 months but there’s no reason you couldn’t use a traditional cot to co-sleep in as long as it’s safe.
How can I sleep with my newborn?
Don’t fall asleep with your baby on your chest, whether you’re in bed or on a sofa. Set baby down on their back in a Moses basket or a co-sleeper bassinet and lie down next to them in your bed. Make sure your duvet is nowhere near them and you’ll both be able to get some rest. This advice from The Lullaby Trust is a great place to begin your research.
The Bottom Line
Co-sleeping is something humans have done since the beginning of time. But co-sleeper bassinets make it safer and that’s something we all want for our babies. It’s very much a personal choice though. So if co-sleeping sounds like something you want to try, one of the best baby co-sleeping bassinets we’ve featured here would be an excellent choice for you and your baby.
