Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. They typically have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach and some come with an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build, and the instructions were easy to follow. It was a quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside 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 zips that are easy to open." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. travel cot bedside come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to monitor your baby in the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a 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 also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
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 keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be 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 germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, bedside cosleeper should ensure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. travel cot bedside 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 a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like tilting, rocking or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It is also easy to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a 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 larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also loves the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with a little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.