Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the instructions were very easy to follow. It was a quick construction. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. 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 also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have an integrated function that lets 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 can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is an important selling point for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a 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 monitor your little one in the comfortable bed. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you lift the baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still quite compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas in which your child could 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 particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
It is also important to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually include a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.
baby bedside co sleeper are clear and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also appreciates the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those with a small space. It also comes with a handy bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.