Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were extremely clear. It was a quick construction. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions, and easy zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have a side panel that can be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and aid them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is a big selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your baby from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great choice 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 with no need to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and popping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still quite small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
In bedside crib or cot to being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bed, you should also consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be risky if your child falls out.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more extras than some of the 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 that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also likes the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great option for those with a limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.