Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. bedside rocking crib who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be removed to let you easily access your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their child all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

A lot of bedside cribs 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, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's a great choice for moms who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specs to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will match your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and popping into a bag for easy storage.

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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.

Easy to clean

If you're considering bedside cribs and travel cots, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.

Another thing 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 ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll want to ensure 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 get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard that 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 sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek, modern design. This crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

bedside cots uk to put together, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.


Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.