bedside crib and travel cot (visit the website)
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, meaning they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes 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 easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby bedside cot and aid them to sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming the baby. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and 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&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It has five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to suit your baby's position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics to fit your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still quite compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby bedside crib doesn't slide off or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important when you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted 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 an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot bedside crib cot or crib 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 lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This one has six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with small bedside cot space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.