Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy access and some even have an incline that's ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. my sources folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes 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 portable crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height means it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and help them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor should be consulted before trying this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an important selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your little one in the peace of your bed. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements however). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate the position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose one that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside it is important to consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or come with 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 only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. 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 travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "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 grows out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and feels solid and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, making it an ideal option for those who have small space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.