Bedside Crib and Cot

Built to be placed next to your bed, a bedside crib and cot is easy to access to feed your baby at night and provide comfort. The majority of them have adjustable heights as well as an incredibly firm, flat air-conditioned mattress that helps your baby rest deeply and safely.

Jasmin, a mum tester, was pleased with the dimensions of the crib. She said it was larger than the standard Moses baskets but not too large. She also appreciated the mesh windows that are multiple and the open-fold mechanism that opens every 30 seconds.

Access to information

A bedside crib (also known as a bedside bassinet or a co-sleeper) is a specially-designed sleep solution that allows parents to keep their babies close without the dangers that come with co-sleeping. As such, it is particularly beneficial for mothers who have had a C-section as they recover and can help them get back into the rhythm of life with their baby.

While it's a great method to teach sharing the space with your baby however, you should be aware of certain things when buying one. You should make sure that the crib has at minimum 12cm of wall or barrier to keep your child from rolling over onto your side. It should have a drop-down section that is easy to reach so that you can pick up your baby at any time during the night, whether it's for comforting or feeding.


The top-rated crib for bedside use is the SnuzPod 4. It's a worldwide bestseller thanks to its Scandi design and numerous features. It comes with a ComfortAir technology that regulates temperature and maximizes airflow. Other options that are popular include the HALO BassiNest Essentia, which features a swiveling sleeping area as well as a sidewall that can be lowered effortlessly so that you can easily reach inside to pick up baby or soothe them. Similarly, the Joie Roomie Glide has an easily collapsible side that allows you to simply push it down using your hand and then it automatically returns to its upright position.

The cribs we've reviewed for you will be able to fit comfortably next your bed and comply with the latest BS EN 1130:2019 safety standard which has introduced more stringent standards for these types of cribs. There are some cribs on the market that do not conform to these standards, but as manufacturers replace older models with safer ones, they will slowly disappear from stores. Be sure to verify that the model you're thinking about buying meets this new safety standard to ensure it's safe.

Safety

A secure and safe sleeping environment is crucial to your newborn's health and wellbeing. Look for cribs or cots that meet NHS safety standards and have been approved by childcare professionals such as the director at the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory. Bedside cribs are a safe and practical solution for sleeping that allows parents to keep their infant close to them, fostering bonding and reassuring them they're not in danger.

When buying a bedside cot, bassinet, or crib, ensure that it has a solid and flat mattress. Any gaps could cause the suffocation. Also, make sure the crib frame is sturdy and that the slats spaced at least 2 inches apart. Check that the mattress meets the dimensions specified by EN 16890 and has been tested for stability, strength and firmness.

Avoid adding pillows, blankets and stuffed toys to your baby's crib unless they are specifically designed for sleeping. Similarly, steer clear of any sleep wedges, or positioners because they're not scientifically proven to improve sleep and could be dangerous for your baby.

It's better to buy a crib with fixed sides, rather than drop sides. They are safer. It's also worth avoiding cribs with mobiles attached because they could pose strangulation and choking risk when the cord or string gets caught around your baby's neck.

Make sure that the crib's hardware is free from any sharp edges that could cause injury or scratching to your baby. Also, ensure that the crib's bedding and mattress are secured properly and that there aren't any broken or loose screws and brackets, buckles, or snaps. Check for the JPMA certification seal. This signifies that the crib has been tested and meets industry safety standards. The seal can be found by searching for a particular product category on JPMA's Certification Directory.

Practicality

If you'd like to sleep close to your newborn but don't want to share the same bed the bedside crib is a safe alternative. These beds, also referred to as co-sleepers, bedside bassinets can be attached to the side of your bed. They provide you with the privacy you need to sleep, but are still close enough to nighttime feedings and a warm. This close connection helps strengthen the bond between parents and child, and also encourages healthy sleep patterns and parents who are able to respond quickly to any wake-up needs during the night.

Many cribs come with an additional side panel that can be detached and kept down at night to let you view your baby easily and lift them out towards you for feeding, night changing nappy or just for calming. Some cribs come with a mesh wall that zips down and can be placed into the mattress for extra security. This eliminates the risk of blankets or duvets falling onto your baby. The SnuzPod 4, as an instance, is made of breathable material that boosts airflow and decreases the chance of being suffocated.

The majority of cribs have straps that let you secure them to the side of your mattress or bed It's important to make sure whether the straps included with the crib are compatible with your bed frame before buying especially if you have a divan bed as this might require straps that are longer. Some cribs can also be folded and put away when not in use making them a great choice to travel with.

The best cribs are made with practicality in mind and are frequently adored by new mums who have had c-section births because it makes it easier to get access to their baby without having to leave the bed during recovery. Some cribs can be used independently, which means you can move them around the room as required, enabling you to keep your baby close throughout the day too which encourages bonding and socialization. They're also a great way to help your baby feel more independent, as they'll learn to fall asleep without you at their side and will establish a self-sleeping routine.

travel cot bedside crib Links to an external site. offers an effective and safe method to sleep with your baby with your baby, allowing you to view and reach your baby without needing to get out of your bed. Some cribs also have incline settings that help with reflux and congestion, while others feature practical under-seat storage for wipes as well as muslin squares. Always use a mattress that is specifically designed for your crib at night mattress - second-hand mattresses are likely to be flat or worn out, which increases the chance of SIDS.

In addition to offering easy access for night feedings, bedside cribs are great for mums recovering from a C-section as they can be used while still laying down. They can aid your baby to learn to sleep in their crib on their own and help them develop independence. The separation they create between your bed and theirs decreases the risk of suffocation.

There are many options available, from budget-friendly models to expensive ones. Some cribs can be folded and put away while others come with a travel bag that you can take them out for weekends. Consider the size of your bedroom and whether your crib will be able to fit. Your baby may get out of it earlier than you think so don't get too small.

The Cozee XL crib is easy to assemble and has a stylish oak base. It also features an anti-reflux incline and a side panel that opens, plus it's easy to clean. It is suitable for most beds, but it could be difficult to fit the divan if it's slightly different.

Chicco's chic bedside crib includes an adjustable mattress, a carry bag and a chic design. It has a unique design that includes a perforated bottom that increases airflow. It also has a range in height adjustments to accommodate your growing child. It's also incredibly easy to clean and has an under-seat storage space that is ideal for nappies, wipes and other baby toys.