Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the sides of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build, and the instructions were simple. It was a fast build. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their baby during the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light and noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel companion. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require a few more 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, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate your baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that match your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who participated in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping into a convenient bag.
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 relatively compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. large bedside crib will help keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and spills. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their child during the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. large bedside cot can be converted into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.
The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". She also likes the ease of clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with a small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.