Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, so they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers, 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).
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the option of sleeping together without the risk (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Others allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who have fears of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that fit in with your decor. foldable bedside crib 's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable which can be washed in the machine. co sleeper bedside cot will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose a product that is able to be removed and partially dismantled so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features that you may find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can 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 comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the risk 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 an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some have the option to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great choice for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.