Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
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 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 also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cot sale cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside crib or cot use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate your baby's position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabric options to complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed 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 small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cot crib cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to select a model that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need a Bedside Travel Crib crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your child falls out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly 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 relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which 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, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. They usually have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby bedside co sleeper however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (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 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also simple to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great choice for those with a small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.