bedside crib and travel cot [discover this info here]
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their baby at night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for newborn bedside cot 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 and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby up to you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get up. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co sleeper bedside cot-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who have fears of their little one rolling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large bedside crib design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something a smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics that will match your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a handy 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 compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and spills. You should also select one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a foldable bedside crib crib that sleeps with your child. 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 areas.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk 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 just due to its sleek Scandi design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than other travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.