Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away 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 also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be removed to let you be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby throughout the night but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
travel cot bedside crib and cozy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest 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 that your chosen model is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have fears of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which 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 slightly larger than the average, but is still quite compact and easy to fit to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that has been passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over 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 secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you 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 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 design in Scandi. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than other 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 set up 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 fabric. It comes with a few more features than 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 fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also loves the ease of clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on divans, making it an ideal choice for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.