Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be adjusted to let you easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to watch your child from the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby up to you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabrics to fit your decor. It's also incredibly simple 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 good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side however it is still compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. try what he says will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current 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 sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also 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 panel closed throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but 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 simple to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also appreciates the ease of clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.