bedside crib and travel cot (Our Webpage)
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. They typically come with a side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set up, so they can be set next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and zips that are easy to open." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their child throughout the night but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful in the case of reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to monitor your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get up. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then pop it up again after you have lifted baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the best bedside cot uk Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still relatively 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 better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. It's an excellent idea to choose one that can be removed and partially dismantled so you can get into every nook and cranny for an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
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 secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get 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 if you're using a bedside crib or cot crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to think about when choosing a cheap bedside cot crib is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or changing into a baby cot for older children 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 and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it dust-free and clean when stored.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, 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 him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.