Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of the bed. They typically come with a side that can be put down for easy reach and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are typically easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and easy zips." newborn bedside cot can be used as a portable crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without having to get 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 on the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be very relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Many bedside cribs are convertible 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, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your baby from the peace of your bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel and 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 an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib according to the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. 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, folding down flat and slipping 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 somewhat larger, but is still quite compact and easy to fit to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.

You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.


You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any 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 has been passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest 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) attaches to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel that 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 down all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it free of dust and clean when stored.

It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer time before my son grows out". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great choice for those with a limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.