Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the side of the bed. They typically have a single side that can be dropped down for easy access, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel that can be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or parents who want to be close to their baby throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
learn here allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great 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, but is still relatively small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spills, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to select a model that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
bedside sleeper cot 'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed take into consideration whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - although be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's simple to put together 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 fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves the ease of clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great option for those with a small space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.