Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were extremely clear. 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 usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct, with clear instructions and easy 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 to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside sleeper cot have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
A lot of bedside crib and travel cot cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. 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 travel-friendly. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside cot for twins. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.
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). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to turn the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a bag for easy storage.
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 however it is still compact and easy to attach into 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
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning 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. It comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also simple to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.