Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are connected to the side of the bed. They often have one side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were clear. It was a fast construction. It folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height means it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their child at night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many 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 a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
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 csection, since you can easily carry your baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement 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, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the corners.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down 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 particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. similar site are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. Most come with a side panel that can be lowered to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some have the option to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. It comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with 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 that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with a little space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.