Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds up into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them to sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your child from light or sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to monitor your little one in the peace of your bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get up. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have fears of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. bedside cot used 's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and popping 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 compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots, look for ones that come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. It's important to choose one that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
When choosing a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your bed to sleep. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. bedside cot newborn allow you to keep 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 include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than other travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with limited space. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.