Co-sleeping has become a fairly common practice between parents and children. However, although many experts support it, in recent times it has also become a very controversial habit as it has been revealed that it increases the risk of suffocation or crushing in babies. Fortunately, there is a solution to benefit from the advantages of co-sleeping without putting the little one at risk: co-sleeping cribs.

The main advantages of co-sleeping cribs

Co-sleeping cribs are a comfortable and safe alternative to sleep with the baby. Its use favors breastfeeding and increases the frequency of feedings since when mother and child are in the same room, the instinctive responses of breastfeeding are activated in both one and the other. And the mother can rest better since she does not have to get up and move in the middle of the night to another room.

These accessories are also an excellent alternative to reduce the risk of sudden infant death. An investigation carried out by the GeSID German Study Center revealed that sleeping close to the parents reduces the risk of sudden death in the baby by 50% . This is because the closeness of the parents calms the baby, regulates her breathing and helps her fall asleep better. In addition, by being close, parents can be more aware of the baby’s movements during the night and notice if he feels bad.

They are also an excellent option to stimulate the development of the child’s brain. Being close to the parents reduces cortisol levels in the baby, while improving the quality of rest, making it reach the deep phase of sleep, which also stimulates the secretion of infant growth hormone. In addition, co- sleeping helps to strengthen the bond between the baby and her parents and stimulates emotional development from an early age.

How to choose the most suitable co-sleeping crib for your baby?

There are many types of co-sleeping cribs, but if you don’t want to put your baby’s safety and comfort at risk, you’d better take into account some details when choosing. First of all, check that the crib is approved according to current European regulations and that the materials with which it is made are robust, resistant and free of toxic substances.

It is also important that it is safe. Check that it has good anchoring systems to the bed and high and soft bars to avoid possible accidents. As for the mattress, it is important that it is comfortable, but also firm to prevent the risk of suffocation and, in any case, there should be no space between the crib mattress and the bed mattress. If there is a gap when attaching the cot to the bed, it must not exceed 60 millimeters.

Another detail to take into account is the age and/or the appropriate weight for the crib, which is usually specified by the manufacturer. Most co-sleeping cribs are indicated from birth to around 6 months, but there are also models for children up to 2 years old. Therefore, if your intention is to use it during the first years of your child’s life, the ideal would be to bet on a crib adapted for children over 1 year of age.

If possible, choose a height-adjustable cot since this way you can adapt it to your bed without difficulty and if it includes wheels even better since you can easily transport it from one place to another in the house. Portability is also another detail that you should consider, especially if you travel frequently, in which case it will be very useful to have a folding crib.

Five perfect co-sleeping cribs for your baby

1. Chicco Next2Me Dream

With this co-sleeping cot your baby will feel very safe thanks to its compact size and enveloping design. Recommended for a maximum weight of 9 kilos, it includes a side opening and closing without a zipper that allows it to be maneuvered with one hand. In addition, it has a mesh window on both sides that improves the baby’s visibility and facilitates air circulation. Its mattress guarantees the child’s comfort at all times because it is firm but soft.

Thanks to its height-adjustable system in 11 positions, it can be adapted to practically any bed, even if it has a drawer. In cradle mode, it can be reclined in up to 4 positions to facilitate the baby’s digestion. In addition, it is a very versatile model since it can be used both as a cradle and as a rocker. And, so that you can move it from one place to another with ease, it comes with practical wheels with brakes. Includes a carry bag.

2. Mibebestore Foldable Cradle

Ideal up to the first 9 months or a maximum of 9 kilos of weight, in this mini crib your baby will feel safe and protected thanks to its closed and compact system. With a padded, soft-touch interior made of 100% cotton, your little one will feel comfortable at all times. In addition, it includes a foam mattress and a quilt filled with 100% silicone hollow fiber so that it does not get cold.

However, this Mibebestore model is not only comfortable but also practical since it has a folding structure with approved flexible straps so that you can close the crib just by lifting it off the ground and it has wheels with brakes to transport it easily. Its structure is very stable and complies with European regulations for co-sleeping cots, while it is made of beech wood and lacquered with non-toxic paints.

3. Fabimax

Elegant and practical, this co-sleeping crib has practically everything your baby needs to sleep comfortably and safely. Made of untreated solid alder wood, it has a height-adjustable base, without bearings, that fits perfectly to your bed to prevent your little one from falling. In addition, it has a large lying surface so that your child continues to use this bed for longer.

This co-sleeping cot includes an extra soft cotton side set that forms a kind of nest to protect the baby at all times, as well as a removable padded bed protector. Its mattress made of polyurethane foam is free of toxic substances and has a breathable cover that can be machine washed at up to 60º. And if you want to use it as a crib, it has an additional side accessory that you can adapt to close the space.

This co-sleeping cot includes an extra soft cotton side set that forms a kind of nest to protect the baby at all times, as well as a removable padded bed protector. Its mattress made of polyurethane foam is free of toxic substances and has a breathable cover that can be machine washed at up to 60º. And if you want to use it as a crib, it has an additional side accessory that you can adapt to close the space.

4. Asalvo Little Dreamer

With this Asalvo co-sleeping cot, your baby will be safe at all times thanks to its robust anchoring system to the bed that gives it extra stability. Its 5-position adjustable height allows it to be adapted to practically any bed while its extendable legs make it easy to attach. By having the sides made of textile, not only will you be able to see your baby at all times, but it also improves air circulation inside.

The crib includes a honeycomb-style mattress, as well as pillows and a duvet to ensure a deep and comfortable rest. All made of resistant and durable fabric to accompany your child for longer. As it is removable, it can be machine washed without difficulty. And, in addition to being practical, it is very versatile as it includes an adjustable side that can be raised to form an independent cradle, while it has straps that allow it to be converted into a bed base or canapés.

5.Star Ibaby AT4

Thanks to its height-adjustable system, this Ibaby co-sleeping cot is easily attached to any type of bed. In fact, it is a very versatile model since if you raise the removable railing you can also use it as a travel cot or bassinet. The crib also has 4 wheels with brakes so you can easily move it from one place to another.

Manufactured according to European regulations, it is made of solid beech wood and lacquered with non-toxic materials. In addition, it has rounded edges to avoid possible accidents. This model includes a very comfortable mattress so that the baby can rest peacefully and a removable quilt with padding, all with zippered protectors to facilitate machine cleaning.