Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the bed's side. They typically have a single side that can be put down for easy access, and some have an incline that's ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were very clear. It was a fast construction. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child at night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. bedside crib and cot should only be used with supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your child 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.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it versatile enough for travelling. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If bedside crib and cot looking for something smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabric options to 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 even need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and popping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still quite compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It's important to select a model that is able to be removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. 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 fall down or get trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an 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 him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.