Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are connected to the side of the bed. They often have one side that can be dropped down for easy access and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were very clear. It was a quick build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but raise it again after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. amazon bedside cot is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby won't slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
When selecting a crib for your bedside, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but remember that you should only use this feature with care because it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been given to you by someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with a small space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.