Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were very clear. It was a simple build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to stay close to their baby at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the risk (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded 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 specs to make sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. There's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
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, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is able to be removed and partially dismantled so that you can access all the nooks and crannies to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. bedside crib with wheels are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their baby at night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. bedside cot 6 months plus come with a side panel that can be lowered to let you feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember 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 well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also simple to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.