Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
amazon bedside cot cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually have one side that can be dropped down for easy access, 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 directions were extremely simple. It was a simple build. It also folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for transport.
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, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside crib or cot use an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their infant at night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a foldable bedside crib crib. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs come with 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 risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. 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 your baby's preferred position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that will complement your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a handy 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 easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though 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 cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It's important to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their child throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk 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 purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be removed to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking bedside crib (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not only because of its sleek, modern design. This crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.