Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They often have one side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally 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, which makes them more transportable. 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 be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby to your side to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped 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 set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It's also a good idea to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access all the nooks and crannies to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas that your child could slide down or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside it is important to consider whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for 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.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed 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. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. foldable bedside crib 's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great option for those with little space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.