Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
bedside crib to cot cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They typically have one side that can be put down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble 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 traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. 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." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
Some cribs let you 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 requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you have lifted baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabrics to fit your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a 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 relatively compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby bedside crib while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for the 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 increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. Most will include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have small bedside cot space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.