Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the bed's side. They often come with a side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build, and the instructions were very clear. It was a simple construction. It also folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for travel cot bedside crib.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside cots for newborns have the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside cot for twins use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one in the comfortable bed. It's a great choice for mothers who are recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Others allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who have an apprehension of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, infant sick and drips. It's important to choose a product that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your own 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 and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedside, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be risky if your child is thrown out.
Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that has been passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek design in Scandi. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, making it an ideal option for those who have small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.