Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They typically have one side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some come with an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small bedside cot and easy to set-up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." The crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby bedside cot.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling factor for 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 comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your infant towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for best bedside cot for newborn Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics that will match your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and 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, 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 put together, however she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to choose one that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so that you can access all the nooks and crannies to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. 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.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside baby bed crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into 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 recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that was handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
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 leaving your bed. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be lowered to let you see your baby and touch him. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek design in Scandi. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.