Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are attached to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.

Easy to put together

They are small and simple to set up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and easy zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a large bedside cot have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming the baby. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.

Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is a big selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require some longer straps 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, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics to match your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before slipping 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 quite compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cot co sleeper cribs or travel cots. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside baby bed crib is whether it has any extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time and 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 secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside cots uk crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be removed to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak 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 only because of its sleek design in Scandi. The crib comes with 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 and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit included to assist 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 amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great choice for those with a limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.