Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. bedside crib travel are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is an attractive selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&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. It was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to monitor your baby from the comfort of your own bed. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you take baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and 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 size, yet it's small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to select a model that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
When selecting a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child falls out.
It is also important to ensure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be adjusted to let you see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. bedside crib travel has a few more features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for a peaceful feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves the ease of clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal option for those who have small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.