Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. They usually have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach and some come with an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and zips that are easy to open." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your child from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel companion. It also has five different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the 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 that your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics to complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina who participated in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to look up the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a handy bag.
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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
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. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. It's also a good idea to select a model that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, so that you can access all the corners and crevices for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. You'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is especially important when 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 infant at night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. Most come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. bedside crib or cot 's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with limited space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.