Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
bedside crib and cot cribs are a bassinet-style cot that is attached to the bed's side. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were simple. It was a simple construction. It folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. 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 easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable cot and comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for 4-in-1 bedside crib use an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming them down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A twin bedside cot crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one from the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the side 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 straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will fit your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. 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 fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
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, however it is still compact and easy to fit to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or amazon bedside cot cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one that has been passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time which increases 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.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.