Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They typically have a single side that can be put down for easy access and some come with an incline that's ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build, and the instructions were very simple. It was a fast build. bedside baby sleeper folds into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, making 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 zips that are easy to open." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their child at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is a big selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (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 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 - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move 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 smart fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach 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
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the corners.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at 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 great for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some have the option to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.