Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually come with a side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together, and the instructions were extremely easy to follow. It was a simple construction. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set up, so they can be set close to 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 put together, with clear instructions, and easy zips." The 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 that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be removed to let you easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their baby at night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming them down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of 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 adjustments to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to watch your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. over here allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you lift baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, 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. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to 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 eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to make sure 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 to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their baby at night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that has been passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be removed so that you can feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf for storage. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with a little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.