Top 6 co-sleeping cribs and our advice

Co-sleeping, what is it?

As the name suggests, the co-sleeping or "co-sleeping" is the fact of sharing his bed with baby: in the marital bed, a co-sleeping cradle, during naps… the co-sleeping takes many forms.
The common idea: give baby a feeling of security and reassurance by sleeping by his side from birth, and for several months or even years for some parents.
According to co-sleeping advocates, the “Shared sleep” would be beneficial to the balanced development of the child, offering him a feeling of security and preventing the anxieties of the first months …

For your information, the latest health records contain the following information: “It is preferable, if possible, to place your baby's bed in your room for the first 6 months at least”.

In practice, the co-sleeping bed goes further, it is an adjustable model that attaches along the base of the parental bed.

• Reference brands: we make sure to select brands from the childcare sector that have proven their worth and leave no doubt as to the seriousness of manufacturing (Chicco, Bébé Confort, Babymoov, Baby-Björn, etc.)
• User reviews and feedback: lhe ratings, testimonials from parents and advice from early childhood professionals are brought together in order to draw the most objective assessment possible.
• Comparison and careful study of the characteristics of the models on the different merchant sites
• Total independence when choosing products: the models of the brands mentioned are not aware of these analyzes or of influence on our choices.

Here is the list of the 6 co-sleeping cradles that have convinced us the most:

1- Iora Gray co-sleeping cradle – BABY CONFORT

This model of Iora Gray co-sleeping bed from Bébé Confort is both a design and modern cradle. Available in blue, dark gray and light gray, it looks like a real cocoon to place baby in. Our favorite among co-sleeping cradles!

Characteristics :

• From birth to around 9 months (9 kg)
• Cot or co-sleeping function
• Fabric window “mesh”: Optimal ventilation + visual contact
• Comfortable mattress: density dedicated to newborns + high quality soft fabrics
• Easy Slide function: easy installation along the parents' bed
• Adaptable to all beds: 5 height adjustment positions
• Nomadic model: light and foldable in an instant, with transport bag included
• Practical side: large storage basket to store baby's nighttime essentials
• Machine washable fabrics removable with a zip
• Open dimensions: L96.4 x H74.9 x l55.5cm
• Product weight: 10.8 kg

Our opinion : this Bébé Confort model is a real favorite. The brand is already one of the benchmarks in childcare products, and its range of co-sleeping beds confirms this. A versatile, modular and solid product that perfectly fulfills its role of shared sleeping. Bottom storage is handy for storing essential diapers and essentials that can be grabbed with one hand overnight. Sufficiently heavy to guarantee excellent stability, it is perfect! The lateral side can be retracted with one hand, even with baby in mum or dad's arms.

More info on the Bébé Confort Iora co-sleeping bed

2 – Next-2-Me Dream co-sleeping cradle – CHICCO

This Chicco Next-2-Me model has been one of the best-selling co-sleeping cradles since its launch. The latest addition to the range, the Chicco Next-2-Me Dream, which offers a complete, adjustable and nomadic shared bed solution.

Characteristics

• Parent's bed attachment system: easy and very secure
• Mesh side side to maintain eye contact and good ventilation
• Functions: rocker to rock baby + slight tilt (optimized breathing and digestion)
• Bed adjustable in height in 11 different positions
• Retractable feet: model suitable for beds with drawers and lower storage
• Moves easily around the room: 4 multidirectional wheels
• Machine and hand washable fabrics and covers
• 2 in 1 function: co-sleeping with opening or independent cradle
• Dimensions: 69 x 93 x 81 cm
• Bed weight: 10 kg

Our opinion : the opinions are unanimous, it is a perfect model for the co-sleeping in complete safety. The steel frame is strong and very stable, there is no risk of tipping over if you have to lean on the barriers. The side sides of the Chicco model are made of mesh: a good way to maintain eye contact even in the cradle version. Easy to fold, it can go on a trip with you!

More info about the Chicco bed

3 – Co-sleeping cot Neste Gray – KINDERKRAFT

As for the favorite models of parents (and babies), this Kinderkraft Neste Gray co-sleeping bed model has earned its place in our top. It has multiple functions and a trendy design, and is available in several uses.

Characteristics :

• From birth to around 9 months (9 kg)
• Rigid and high-end materials: steel frame + washable polyester coating
• Contact fabrics: 100% cotton
• Practical attachment to the parental bed: rigid and wide straps
• Model adjustable on 5 levels in height: from 34 to 48 cm
• Accessories and contents of the set: transport bag, mattress (90 x 52 cm) with its protective cover, cotton sheet
• Use in co-sleeping mode + independent sleeping + slight inclination to facilitate digestion
• Lateral side in retractable mesh: visual contact + pleasant ventilation
• Comfortable mattress dedicated to infants
• Dimensions: 102.5 x 85 x 68.5 cm
• Weight: 9kg

Our opinion : the Kinderkraft brand is regularly one of the best sellers in childcare products, undoubtedly because of its excellent value for money and trendy designs. The Neste Gray co-sleeping cot model will follow baby from birth to 9 months, as a co-sleeping with the lateral side retracted or in independent cradle mode. Easy to fold up and carry in the supplied bag, it can be used as an extra travel bed.

More information on the Kinderkraft bed

4 – Co-sleeping cradle in solid wood – BABYBAY

This Babyday co-sleeping bed is one of the best sellers in its category, and that's no surprise considering its quality. Very solid, it is made of untreated solid beech wood and 100% guarantees healthy composition. It also features 10 height adjustable positions, making it suitable for all types of adult beds.

In detail :

• From birth to around 9 months
• Material : solid beech (untreated, pollutant-free, from sustainably managed forests)
• Adjustable in height in 10 positions
• Practical attachment: 2 strong attachment straps
• Sleeping surface: width 40 x length 81 cm
• Dimensions: width 41 x length 88 x height 79 cm
• Weight: 11 kg
• Fully mobile: safety gate + castor kit (both available separately, not included with the bed)
• Mattress and fitted sheet available separately (breathable mattress on amazon, from 59 eur / Babybay white fitted sheet, around 10 eur)

Our opinion :
A quality model, solid and durable: this Babybay co-sleeping bed is both beautiful and robust. The many height positions guarantee adaptability to any adult bed. Only downside, the mattress is not provided, but given the quality of the fabrics and materials, this is a detail. The brand has been awarded by a German organization for the design and composition of its products. Once the baby's 9 months are over, we can even give him a second life as a booster.

More information on the Babybay model

5 – Vario 2-in-1 co-sleeping bed – FILLIKID

On the side of Fillikid, a Nordic family brand, the natural wood co-sleeping bed has convinced many parents. Composed of solid beech wood, it is solid and robust.
Its particularities:

• Composition: solid beech wood
• Removable side bar: can be used as a separate bed or as a co-sleeping
• Easy attachment to the parent's bed with a strap
• Adjustable in height: 5 different positions (48, 51, 54, 61 cm)
• Dimensions: 45 x 95
• Mattress surface: 40 x 90 cm
• Our advice: choose a soft bed bumper for even more comfort (white dotted bed bumper, around 20 eur on amazon)

Our opinion : a model both beautiful and of very good quality, approved by the parents (and babies). The family brand Fillikid is best known in its Nordic country of origin, but is starting to make its way to our rooms! The gate is easy to raise or lower with one hand, even with a sleeping baby in the arms.

More info on the Fillikid model

6 – Baby Side Cradle – JANE

The Janè brand had already been able to conquer the rankings for car seats and strollers, so it's no surprise that we find it with its Baby Side co-sleeping bed model. It can be used for co-sleeping or as an independent cradle.

In detail :

• Can be used as a co-sleeping bed or independent cradle
• Telescopic lower legs: adjustable in 6 height positions
• Nomadic product: easily removable and foldable
• Practical side: washable fabrics + removable covers
• Accessories and content: duvet cover, fitted sheet, cushion and pillowcase
• Composition: 100% cotton
• Brakeable wheels
• Mattress dimensions: 49.5 x 82.5 cm

Our opinion : an elegant cream-colored model (also exists in other versions) which has the advantage of being supplied with basic bedding, which does not have to be purchased in addition. It is therefore a bed with excellent value for money, suitable from birth up to about 9 months!

More info Janè's Baby Side bed

Adopting the co-sleeping: our answers and advice

Co-sleeping can begin as soon as your baby is born, provided that certain essential safety rules are respected:
> Baby's position: imperatively on the back, flat or slightly inclined to facilitate digestion
> Total proximity with parents on the same mattress: it is possible if the bed is large enough, and the edges of the beds are secure (along a wall or with barriers). Under 6 months, this is rather not recommended.
> Bed linen must be safe for the child: no quilts, messy pillows and multiple sheets.
> In the case of a co-sleeping bed: make sure that the cradle mattress is aligned edge to edge with the bed base of the parental bed, and that the fixing is solid.

When it comes to the length of co-sleeping and “shared” sleep, the rule is, there aren't any! Just like breastfeeding, there is no comparison, the main thing is to be attentive to your baby's needs, safety and the layout of the room. As a mom, if you breastfeed for several months (including the night), it will obviously be easier to continue co-sleeping.

However, it is recommended that you wait until your baby has 6 months completed before starting a smooth transition. To begin with, we recommend that you take naps in an independent cradle, then naps with him in his room, and so on. The child may alternate several months between his bed and yours, but don't worry, each baby has their own pace!

>> The material: a baby bed is doomed to last for several months. Make sure you choose a strong and rigid bed. Wood is a good option, as long as you choose robust and durable products, and not too light materials.
Models with steel frames and coated with polyester are also popular, they are often cheaper and in elegant colors (white, gray, midnight blue, etc.)
>> The weight: the bed must be heavy enough to guarantee good stability, especially since you may have to lean on the barriers to grab the baby (minimum 9 kg preferably)
>> The type of attachment to the parental bed: co-sleeping cradles all have a special attachment, strap or attachment to be connected along the bed base and parents' mattress. Ideally, check that the adjustable height positions are compatible with your bed. In case of storage or drawers under the bed base, a model with retractable legs should be chosen.
>> Mobility: if you plan to move the bed in the bedroom or install it in a separate room in mode “Independent cradle”, bet on a model with wheels. Some are even foldable and transportable, so they can be used as travel and extra beds.
>> The price: a very subjective criterion depending on the budget available, but the average price of co-sleeping cradles is around 200 euros. In wood, it will probably be more expensive.
>> The delivery service: practical advice but not essential if you are driving of course. Otherwise, free home delivery is a plus.

Benefits of co-sleeping:
>> Better sleep: children who fall asleep next to their parents tend to be more relaxed and are less prone to nocturnal awakenings.
>> A feeling of confidence: some studies show that children who slept with their parents for the first few months of life are less likely to be anxious and feel more relaxed around other children.
>> More independence and autonomy: Toddlers who have lived the nights of their first months alongside their parents are more relaxed in the face of separation and attachment to objects. This advantage should be put into perspective, however, because babies who have not been in a co-sleeping are not more stressed!
>> Easy breastfeeding : when the mother shares the baby's bed, it is easier to breastfeed regularly and thus stimulate lactation. Skin-to-skin proximity to mom is indeed important during baby's first weeks, for the same reason. However, skin-to-skin with dad is just as appropriate, gentlemen …

Disadvantages of co-sleeping
>> Risk of falling if the co-sleeping is done in the marital bed (no risk in the co-sleeping cradles fixed along the bed base of the parents' mattress)
>> Risk of removing the cradle: if the co-sleeping bed is not fully adapted to the box spring, it may tend to become more distant. Hence the importance of choice!
>> Risk of bad baby positioning: only if the co-sleeping is done on the same mattress as the parents, since the child can easily have a tendency to be crushed or under a part of the bed (pillow, sheets, blankets, etc.)

For the time being, studies carried out by several countries (Canada, United States, etc) fail to demonstrate absolutely that the co-sleeping is THE best thing to adopt for baby's sleep.
A single survey over 20 years shows a slight cognitive positive effect on young children who had slept with their parents in co-sleeping. But once they reached adulthood, there was no marked difference between the sleeping arrangements chosen: children who benefited from co-sleeping during their first months had neither more nor less behavior or sleep concerns.

The only thing that emerges from the studies: Sharing a bed on the same bed is the leading cause of sudden infant death syndrome.
> Not necessarily by crushing, but by bad position of the baby (Laying down on the chest) or by consuming alcohol or substances affecting the parent's condition.
> Bed sharing or co-sleeping is above all a question of adaptability to the context, to parents, and to babies: not all children require continuous physical proximity with mom and dad, and some also need total calm and silence to calm down.
> The only risk of co-sleeping exists when baby sleeps in the marital bed: it does not have protective barriers and it is often synonymous with matted sheets, messy eiderdowns and pillows! This is why co-sleeping cradles avoid the risks of suffocation, falls, or accidents.

Our conclusion? Listen to your heart and your parenting instincts, no one knows better than you what your child needs to be completely safe. Societal injunctions must not (more) not influence your final choice.
And if you want to experience the co-sleeping, consider choosing a product that can evolve into a separate bed, very gently! So which one is on your list?