Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. They usually have one side that can be put down for easy access and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is an attractive selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have fears of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics that will match your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and spills. It's an excellent idea to select a model that can be removed and partially dismantled so that you can access all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care because it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely 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 latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. bedside crib travel cot have the option to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It is also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with limited space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.