Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. 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 removed so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one from the comfort of your own bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you have lifted baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a large design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to consult the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose one that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
click to find out more says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer time before my son grows out". She also likes how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.