Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the sides of a bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build and the instructions were simple. It was a fast construction. It folds up into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions, and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height means it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your child in the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to suit your baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and popping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. bedside cot reviews 'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
You'll also want to ensure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This crib has six height settings as well as a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free 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 the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great option for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.