Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the sides of the bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be adjusted to let you easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie is 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 that makes it ideal for travel. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the option of sleeping together without the risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Others allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have fears of their child falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, however it is still compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. It's important to select a model that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to every nook and cranny for an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that bedside cots for newborns Cots For Tots of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with additional features you might consider useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
It is important 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 risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
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 having to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. This crib has six height settings as well as a handy shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great option for those with a limited space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.