Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of a bed. They typically come with a side that can be put down for easy reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have 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 own bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional 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 factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and 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 also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement 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, which folds flat and 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 slightly larger than the average, but is still relatively compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. You should also choose one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there are no gaps or areas in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their child throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside 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.
Also, you should make sure that your cot bedside or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than use one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib with changing table crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be lowered to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking bedside crib 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 it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.