Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble an infant bassinet, and are attached to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble, and the instructions were extremely easy to follow. It was a simple construction. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making 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 be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be lowered to let you easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie is the 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 adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib enables you to watch your baby in the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you lift baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat before 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 also found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and spills. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly important when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) attaches to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your own sleeping area. bedside baby bed can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. 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 be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings, as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great choice for those who have little space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.