Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They typically come with a side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some even 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 clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to construct, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant at night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build, comfortable and compact. best bedside cot is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your own bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face 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 though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will match your decor. newborn bedside cot 's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat before slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose one that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents 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 selecting a crib for your bed it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This crib has six height settings, as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach 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 outgrows it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.