Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They usually have one side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were very clear. 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 on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making 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 simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height means it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your own bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it suitable for travel. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabrics that match your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and spills. It's important to select a model that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into every nook and cranny to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
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 chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be lowered so that you can see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
bedside baby bed says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.