Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
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 an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs 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 bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to stay close to their child at night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that is beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel cot bedside companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best cot for bedside or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabric options to complement your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat before 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cot 6 months plus cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and drips. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many 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 little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.