Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. 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 easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child throughout the night but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Cots 4 Tots have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one from the peace of your bed. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to suit your baby's position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that match your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still quite small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. You'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Aside 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 especially crucial if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant during the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed take into consideration whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was given to you by someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. This crib comes with six height settings as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also heavier and bulkier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as 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, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.