Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were simple. It was a fast build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to watch your baby in the peace of your bed. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a large design with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabric options to complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and spills. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into 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 travel cot or crib instead of using one handed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to losing their shape with time which increases 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.
bedside cot mattress (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place 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 tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib has six height settings as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great option for those with a little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.