Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes 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 simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their infant at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an important selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting 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 bags.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still quite compact and easy to fit to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose one that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that has been passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be removed to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
travel cot bedside are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves the ease of clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great option for those with small space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.