Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be close to their child all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect 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 an important selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, 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 loved it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. bedside cot mattress come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you are looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to read the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their infant during the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.