Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They typically come with a side that can be put down for easy reach and some come with an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were easy to follow. It was a quick construction.
Highly recommended Internet site folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised 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 handy bag to carry it around traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their child all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby.
bedside cot co sleeper can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help calm your baby down. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple 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 another popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your child in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you take baby out. This is ideal for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specs to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without having to look up any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a 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, but is still relatively small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots.
Highly recommended Internet site will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their baby during the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure 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 was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be removed to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features like rocking, tilting, or even converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those who have little space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.