Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. They typically have one side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline that's ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs have a storage area underneath that can be used to store 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 key selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to watch your child from the peace of your bed. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who have fears of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabrics to fit your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped 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, however it is still small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's also a good idea to select a model that can be removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. bedside crib and travel cot is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When selecting a crib for your bed it is important to consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be removed so that you can feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib comes with six height settings, as well as an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It'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, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.