Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the bed's side. They usually have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to put together

They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be removed to allow you to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby at night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping.

Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. small bedside cot offer a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.


A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm them down. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being easy to build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your child in the comfortable bed. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.

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 requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you have lifted baby out. This is better for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.

If you're looking for something little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement 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. small bedside cot is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose one that is easily removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.

This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot fall off or be 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 bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

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

It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.

It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It is also easy to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free 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 the ease of clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those with little space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.