Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were clear. It was a simple build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable cot and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be adjusted to let you easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their child all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also 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 fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a 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 also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features you might consider useful. bedside crib with wheels can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and can 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 more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. Most will feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place 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 come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (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 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also simple to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those with limited space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.