Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. 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 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 means it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered so that you can 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 baby during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help calm them down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an attractive selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your child from the comfortable bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
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 meets the current safety standards). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have fears of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards 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 specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics that will match your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down 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 somewhat larger, but is still relatively compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is particularly crucial if 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 infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features you might find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
It is also important to ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one given to you by someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
large bedside crib are clear and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal choice for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.