Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around on the move. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and sound, 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 other clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). travel cot bedside crib 's a spacious model with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
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 put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and spills. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't slide off or become trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
When travel cot bedside crib are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely 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 most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It's also simple to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". She also likes the ease of clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.