Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are connected to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, so they can be set close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their child all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
baby bedside crib that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel companion. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the option of sleeping together without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it 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, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that will match your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before slipping into a handy 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 small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their baby at night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When choosing a crib for your bed it is important to consider whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be risky if your child is thrown out.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which 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, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy 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. Some cribs have additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings as well as a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It has a few more extras than some of the other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those with a little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.