Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the sides of the bed. They usually come with a side that can be put down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were very easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are on the smaller side so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making 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 simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their infant throughout the night but don't wish to take on 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 comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Many cribs for bedside co sleeper use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also 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
A Bedside Crib With changing table crib lets you to watch your child in the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for a new mum 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 are breathable so which you can see 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 standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a fantastic 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 slightly larger than the average, but is still quite small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's important to select a model that is easily removed and partially dismantled so you can get into every nook and cranny to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside travel cot crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to easily access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The twin bedside cot crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to is attached 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 include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy 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 include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. This crib has six height settings as well as a handy shelf for storage. 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 free of dust and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son gets older". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those who have little space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.