Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the side of the bed. They usually have one side that can be put down for easy access, and some have an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, so they can be set next to 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 assemble with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help calm them down. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. cheap bedside cot has five different height adjustments to fit your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you lift the baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to suit the baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect all the corners.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
It is also important 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 are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their infant at night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care, as it can be risky if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because the baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your bed to sleep. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This model comes with 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, but it comes in a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during 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 the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great option for those with a limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.