Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of the bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds into an extremely 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 are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina who was one of the 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." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered 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 those who want to stay close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your child from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before 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 capacity, but it is small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It's important to choose a product that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their child at night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When choosing a crib for your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that has been passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can 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 allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. large bedside crib 's also heavier and bulkier than other comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.