There is no doubt that bringing a new baby home from the hospital can be one of the most joyful experiences for any parent but it comes with a lot of stress as well!
This kind of feeling is normal as you may be worried about a lot that has to do with the bundle of joy.
One of the most important parts of bringing your newborn home is figuring out where they’ll be sleeping. You have to pick a good car seat as well, right from the first day.
Obviously, a crib is the most obvious answer but some parents would rather have their baby closer to them than that!
Of course, co-sleeping can be controversial and some are against it but, if you take the right precaution measures, this can be a really beneficial thing for the baby as well!
With that being said, a co-sleeper is a great idea if you want to sleep right beside your infant, even cuddling them without running the risk of hurting them during sleep.
Co-sleepers are generally a great choice and there are many options to choose from which is both good and bad since you might have a hard time choosing the right one for your particular situation.
Luckily, this guide is here to help you figure out which co-sleeper is ideal for you and also includes an extensive list of some of the best co-sleepers on the market with links to where you can purchase them.
First of all, what is co-sleeping?
Often, there is a misconception that it means sharing the bed which is why so many people are against it!
Sleeping in the same bed with an infant can be really dangerous for them after all and it’s usually just referred to as bed-sharing.
However, in reality, co-sleeping means sleeping near each other be it in the same bed or even just in the same room!
Types of Co-Sleepers
Before purchasing a co-sleeper, you should know that there are two main types!
Bedside
A bedside co-sleeper, like the name also suggests, is meant to be placed right next to the bed and at times, it even attaches to it using a strap.
This is the perfect option for parents who are worried about sharing the bed with their little ones.
This way, they are still within arms’ reach without having to risk their safety.
In-Bed
If, on the other hand, you’d like to have your infant in the same bed with you but still make sure they remain safe at night, you can pick an in-bed co-sleeper, also known as a baby nest.
They are designed to allow your infant to sleep in your bed, but due to the fact that they have higher sides, they manage to prevent the parent from rolling too close to the little one.
Of course, you can’t just pick a co-sleeper based on these two characteristics.
In reality, there are quite a few things you might need to know and want to consider before getting one for you and your baby.
It Should Allow for Back Sleeping
Pediatricians recommend infants to be placed on their backs now which is quite different from what the older generation thought before, that babies should sleep on their bellies!
This is because a baby sleeping on their stomach can fall into a really deep sleep which may be too deep for them.
In that situation, if they suffocate for whatever reason, they may not be able to come out of a deep sleep quickly enough, which is obviously really dangerous.
With that being said, make sure you purchase a co-sleeper that allows your bundle of joy to sleep on their backs.
This way, they might wake up more often during the night but they have a much smaller chance of succumbing to SIDS.
Safety Straps
Depending on the co-sleeper’s location, you might need to purchase one that comes with straps.
This is mostly the case with sleepers that have the baby elevated in any way.
However, the straps are also useful because they stop the baby from trying to get out of it the second they are awake.
Furthermore, if they are strapped in, they are also less likely to fall or bump their heads while wriggling about.
Breathability
The fabric of the co-sleeper should be made out of cotton or a derivative of it, which will allow the baby to breathe easily.
Furthermore, another way to ensure breathability is to have vented sides as those allow for much better airflow than closed ones.
Adjustable Height
If you are looking for a bedside co-sleeper that can be placed up against your bed, it makes sense that you choose a product with an adjustable height otherwise your little one will not remain completely secure during the night.
Without this feature, it can be easy for the baby to fall out of the open side of the sleeper.
Washable
While as cute and cuddly as can be, no one can deny that babies are also super messy, something that is particularly true for newborns.
As a result, they are prone to many accidents, including diaper blowouts which is why you should be looking for a co-sleeper that is easy to take apart and clean at any time.
Portable
Obviously, a co-sleeper that works perfectly at home is great but what if you want to go on a vacation or to visit a family member along with your little one?
In that situation, you will have the worst time trying to get them to sleep unless you purchase a super portable co-sleeper and take it along with you on your trips!
Problem solved! Now your baby will be able to fall asleep easily no matter where you take them!
Easy Accessibility
If you are looking for a co-sleeper that will make breastfeeding a lot easier at night, you need to take this feature into great consideration.
The co-sleeper needs to make it easy and quick for you to get to your infant whenever they need you without a lot of struggle and movement.
After all, the last thing you want is for the little one to wake up completely in the middle of the night just because you failed to get them out fast enough.
Now that you know everything you should look out for when choosing the perfect co-sleeper for you and your bundle of joy, here are some of the best on the market, in no particular order!
SNOO Smart Sleeper by Happiest Baby
This is one of the best co-sleepers for modern parents. This is because the SNOO Smart Sleeper by Happiest Baby comes with technology that “hears” the infant’s cries and responds to it by increasing the white noise level as well as the motion so that you do no need to pick the baby up.
However, if the baby really does need you, the SNOO app will let you know!
The sides are made out of breathable mesh and the sleep sacks and included sheet are made out of organic cotton.
The SNOO also allows babies to sleep comfortably on their backs as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Not only that but it also features a preemie setting and one that helps infants adjust to sleeping in a crib.
Not to mention that this product’s manufacturer offers a 30 day trial so if you don’t like how it performs you can always send it back and get your money back.
It’s great for the first 6 months of your child’s life.
Baby Bassinet by RONBEI
The Baby Bassinet by RONBEI is a great bedside sleeper bassinet and it’s also beautiful!
Furthermore, you’ll be pleased to learn that it features a bonus music box with an attached dangling toy.
It also features a soft and breathable mesh while the other fabrics are made from a microfiber that is not at all scratchy to your baby’s delicate skin.
The quilted mattress cover is washable.
The height can be adjusted to get the bassinet to a maximum of 26.5 inches off the ground, which is ideal if you have a rather tall bed.
For some extra stability, the legs also go further out under the bed.
You can also elevate either side of the bassinet’s mattress which is really useful, especially if your baby has a lot of reflux.
The angle is only a few inches which is not a lot but it’s enough to help their stomachs.
Snuggle Me Organic Co-Sleeper
The Snuggle Me Organic Co-Sleeper was designed to create a really cozy and safe place for your baby every night.
This is because the sides are made in such a way that they hug the baby gently, giving them a secure feeling as if you were still holding them in your arms.
Not to mention that the snug fit prevents the baby from rolling off in their sleep and hurting themselves.
It’s ideal for babies up to 9 months of age.
The cover is made out of GOTS-certified fabrics and filled with virgin polyester filling.
It is also easy to remove and clean.
Available in five different earthy colors so it’s bound to match all sorts of décor in your home instead of sticking out like a sore thumb!
Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper Crib
The Mika Micky Bedside Sleeper Crib is a bedside crib and it can easily attach to the bed by using its fastening straps.
Furthermore, this product allows parents to put down one of the side walls, making it as easy as possible to reach the baby whenever they need you or if you just want to cuddle them in the morning.
And if your bed is really high or, on the contrary, really low, there is no reason to worry if you purchase this co-sleeper due to the fact that it has no less than 7 height positions!
The crib has two mesh sides that make it breathable and comfy for your little one.
The mattress is really comfortable and sturdy and so is the crib!
It can be used from the newborn stage up to five months of age or when your baby reaches 33 pounds.
That being said, just keep in mind that when your baby starts being able to pull themselves in an upright position you might want to find another product as they may be able to get out of the crib.
Ronbei Bedside Sleeper
The Ronbei Bedside Sleeper is one of the top choices for parents and it makes sense as to why!
This crib features a really special fabric.
Furthermore, it meets all safety standards, making sure your little one is all secure while sleeping.
And because it has no less than 9 height adjustment options, it can be used with pretty much any type of bed!
The feet are also retractable which means that it’s super easy to adjust and fit it under the bed when the baby isn’t sleeping if you don’t have a lot of space.
Dream on Me Skylar Bassinet
The Dream on Me Skylar Bassinet is a bedside sleeper with distinctive legs that make it much easier for the bassinet to remain in an upright position.
Not only that but they are also made in such a way that they can fold both outwards and inwards which allows the co-sleeper to be placed as close to the bad as possible.
Perhaps the best feature of this product, however, is that it can easily and quickly convert from a bassinet to a bedside cot.
Finally, it features five height adjustment options and it can be used by babies up to the age of six months.
Dream on Me Lotus Bassinet
The Dream on Me Lotus Bassinet has a drop down side so parents can get to the baby really easily without getting out of bed or having to take the baby out of the cot.
It meets safety standards and the sides are made out of a breathable mesh.
The height has four adjustment options and there is also an optional covering that allows the sleeper to be used outside.
It comes with a travel bag.
Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go
If you are someone who likes to keep a close eye on your baby at night, this co-sleeper is perfect for you!
This product can be placed on the bed for the safest bed-sharing ever!
This is because it still gives the baby their own safe space to sleep in while still allowing the parent to sleep close to them.
This is especially useful if you are breastfeeding as the baby will always be within arm’s reach.
The mattress and fitted sheet included in the set can be quickly removed and thrown into the washing machine for easy cleaning.
This co-sleeper is made out of a cotton and polyester blend that is safe and comfortable for your baby.
It measures 30 inches long and 21.5 inches wide unfolded but you can also fold it, which makes it easier to carry around with you on trips or to store.
Just keep in mind that this co-sleeper is more suitable for younger babies rather than older ones due to the fact that it does not provide a lot of support for rollovers.
River & Robin Baby Lounger Lounger Co-Sleeper
The JoJo Infant and Toddler Lounger Co-Sleeper is perfect if you are looking for something that can “grow” along with your baby.
This is because not only does it work for babies but also for toddlers!
The way you know if it’s suitable for your child or not, is if their shoulders and hips fit in the sleeper’s center at the same time.
The design is made in such way that it will hug your little one and make them feel like they are still in your arms, providing them with the coziest and safest sleep.
And since the center is also padded slightly, there is no reason to worry about the surface being uncomfortable.
The edges are also raised, preventing the little one from rolling over in their sleep.
The product is super lightweight even though it is a little on the larger side.
As a result it may still be quite difficult to bring along while traveling.
Arm’s Reach Mini Ezee 2-in-1 Co-Sleeper
The Arm’s Reach Concepts Mini Ezee Co-Sleeper is a bedside co-sleeper and bassinet and features a lot of storage, has adjustable legs and even castors for easier movement.
One side comes down to make reaching your baby easy and convenient but if you want them to sleep alone separately, it can also be raised up to ensure their safety.
This co-sleeper also works great for transitioning from co-sleeping to sleeping alone.
And that’s not all! This product comes with a lot of storage underneath as well so you can keep all kinds of things including clothes, diapers and pretty much anything else you need for an infant at hand.
Despite being so functional, this co-sleeper is really compact, being able to fold down for better storage.
You can also just put it into the trunk and take it with you everywhere while traveling.
It also comes with its own mattress and a cotton sheet which is washable and the sides are mesh, allowing your bundle of joy to breath freely and also take in their surroundings.
Lulyboo Bassinet to Go
The Lulyboo Bassinet to Go is very simple and comfortable and comes in neutral tones so that it matches any interior décor!
The size is perfect to fit in between the parents on the bed without causing any discomfort for them or the baby.
The sides are soft and squishable, allowing your infant to feel safe and snuggly.
But what really makes this co-sleeper so special is that it was designed in such a way that it folds down into a backpack, allowing parents to take it anywhere!
Furthermore, in addition to it being super portable, it also comes with a toy bar dangling from the hood which means that the baby will always be entertained while the parents are busy with something else.
It is also machine washable and has a soft mat on the inside while also being waterproof at the bottom.
It does not contain any harmful materials such as phthalates, latex, or lead.
Baby Delight Snuggle Nest
I you are looking for a really good travel co-sleeper, the Baby Delight Snuggle Nest might be just the one for you!
This is because it folds up really compactly for storage and also comes with a hood so you can put your little one to sleep no matter where you are.
It comes in neutral shades which means that not only will your baby feel calm while sleeping but the colors also make it easy for parents to match it to their interior design.
The shell is very sturdy and the vents breathable, ensuring that your baby will have a cozy and safe sleep.
It is also designed with four pockets where you can store small items.
DockATot Deluxe+
If you are looking for an in-bed co-sleeper that can also be used when the baby starts sitting up or rolling over, this might just be the right product for you!
The DockATot Deluxe+ comes in two different sizes meant for different stages of your baby’s life, namely Deluxe+ (0-8 months), and Grand (9-36 months).
This product has raised sides that provide the infant or toddler with their own space even while sharing the bed with their parents.
This design also makes the little one feel all snuggly as opposed to the standard bassinet-style co-sleeper.
It comes in a lot of different colors and patterns which means you won’t have to struggle to match your décor.
The cover it comes with is machine washable and the co-sleeper itself is super portable, allowing parents to take it with them on trips without too much of a hassle.
Mumbelli Infant Bed
The Mumbelli Infant Bed is an in-bed co-sleeper with high sides and a non-slip bottom.
Furthermore, this co-sleeper is actually designed to be “womb-like” if you use the infant insert, which means that it will mimic pregnancy conditions for your newborn, allowing them to be much calmer and fall asleep quicker because of the snug feel that can also reduce any startling movements around them.
While this product is not made out of harsh materials such as BPA, lead, phthalates, latex, it is also not made out of cotton but of polyester and foam.
The band promises that their product will reduce fussiness and crying thanks to its unique shape.
This co-sleeper can also be used as an insert for a crib or a portable lounger.
It also comes with an “anti-reflux” wedge that is supposed to help your baby sleep easier at night, as per the manufacturer.
However, just keep in mind that, despite their claims, the current infant sleep guidelines advise against wedges due to the fact that they can cause the baby to slip down and become unable to turn their faces to breathe.
This brand offers their clients a 14 days long trial during which you can decide whether or not you like their product.
After that two week period of time, if you are unsatisfied, you can send it back and get a full refund.
The Mumbelli either meets or exceeds all the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s regulations for infant products.
Scuddles 3-1 Portable Bassinet
Scuddles’ 3-in-1 Portable Bassinet is meant to be, first and foremost, a travel bassinet!
Furthermore, it is the ideal product for diaper changes, on-the-go sleeping, and can also be used as a diaper bag.
Just keep in mind that while the company labels it as a co-sleeper at some point, this does not seem to be its primary function.
Either way, this is a great, compact product that allows parents to change their little one’s diapers while on the go.
It also features zippered pockets that can hold all kinds of gear and can easily fold into a diaper bag.
The Scuddles Bassinet can be used up to 12 months of age and it can expand to up to two feet which means that it is one of the best co-sleeping products for older babies.
BabyBjorn Cradle
This product has been modeled after the classic cradle we all know which means that it even lets parents rock their baby back and forth to help them fall asleep faster.
Not only that but this co-sleeper even lets the babies rock themselves to sleep just with their own movements!
The BabyBjorn Cradle is relatively small in size and can be carried from room to room throughout the day, allowing the baby to always be by your side and under your supervision while you’re busy doing other things around the house.
It has a simple, classic shape and features mesh sides for some extra breathability.
Just keep in mind that this cradle is only suitable for babies who weigh 18 pounds or less, being one of the smallest weight limits out there for such products.
This means that you will probably only get to use it for a maximum of 6 months as most babies will have reached that weight by then.
The mesh sides are removable and washable which is quite unique since normally, only the mattress to a co-sleeper can be removed for easy cleaning.
