Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. They often have one side that can be put down for easy reach and some come with an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It also folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to take 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 can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling point for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. best bedside cot for newborn cots4tots has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to monitor your little one from the peace of your bed. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design that has an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate your baby's position.
If you're looking for something a smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and popping into a convenient 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 onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their infant during the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any extra features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
Also, you should make sure 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 head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps 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 that was passed 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 have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your bed. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer time before my son gets older". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.