Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the side of the bed. They typically have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were simple. It was a fast construction. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes 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 easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable 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 allow you to easily access your baby without having to get out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby and aid them 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 doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming them down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an attractive selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&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 tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved 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.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to watch your child in the comfort of your own bed. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase airflow. There's bedside cot sale integrated setting for reflux, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still relatively small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also select one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features like rocking, tilting, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek, modern design. This crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "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 loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.