Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most 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 fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used 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 in calming them down. Some cribs have a storage area underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to watch your child in the comfort of your own bed. It's a great choice for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without getting out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements though). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their little one rolling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a handy 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 small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at bedside crib s or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into every nook and cranny to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one that was given to you by someone else or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when stored.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the 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 an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those with small space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.