Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of a bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds up into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. 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 zips that are easy to open." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to 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 the need to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their child at 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 fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie is the 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 that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was highly praised 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 Play and Pack Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your child from the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that you can see your newborn through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Others allow you to lower the barrier but 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 side of their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before 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 on the larger side but is still relatively compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.


Easy to clean

If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It's important to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny for an extensive cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

When selecting a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs 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 reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. see this website can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when stored.

The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with 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 wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.