Bedside Cots

Bedside cribs are also known as a bassinet or side sleeper. It is attached to the mattress of the parent and allows the baby to sleep close to the parent. They're a secure method of co-sleeping and are great for mothers recovering from c-sections.


MFM tester Georgina found the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib to be very quick and easy to assemble (one of the quickest during testing). It's height adjustable, and can be tilted into an inclined position for babies who have reflux and is a good alternative for travel cots.

They're safe

Co-sleepers, also known as bedside cots, as they are also called, are specially designed infant sleep solutions that let babies sleep close to their parents without the danger of SIDS. They look like Moses baskets, but are connected to the parent's bed. One side is open, which means parents can easily access their infant sleeping. They're perfect for families who want to reap the benefits of co-sleeping, but are worried about the potential risks that come with bed sharing.

Many are concerned about the safety of an infant bassinet or bedside sleeping device, but CHOICE has discovered that when used properly they are safe and have a low risk of accidents and injuries. These cribs are also a great option for new parents who struggle with the exhaustion of late night feedings and early morning diaper changes. You can keep an eye on the baby and soothe them if necessary.

If you're in search of a secure bedside cot, choose one that has a durable, breathable mattress. A breathable mattress will aid in regulating your baby's temperature, and also prevent them from overheating. It is also recommended to buy a fitted sheet that is sized to fit your mattress as well as a nappies changing kit that has waterproof covers and a mat with wipes. You can purchase all these items online and in stores that specialize in baby products. It is not recommended to use second-hand or hand-me-down products. They could have been damaged, recalled or not up to safety standards.

A quality bedside crib is easy to put together and can be removed when not in use. Some models also have tilt positions which can be adjusted which can make it easier for newborns to sleep in an elevated position, or for parents with reflux. Some models come with an included travel bag so they can be easily put away and carried along when you travel.

They're easy to clean

Bedside cots are simple to clean, especially with the right equipment. Begin by removing any bedding, such as sheets, blankets or cuddly toys. Then wash them according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Clean the cot including the mattress. Pay special attention to the corners and crevices. A mattress protector is also a good idea to help reduce the accumulation of dust mites and other germs.

Then, clean the cot using a soft cloth dampened with baby-safe cleaner or a natural stain remover spray. Regularly dampen a new cloth to remove soapy residues and keep the cot clean. If foldable bedside crib has staining then use a gentle scrub brush to remove them. Add a small amount of baking soda to improve lingering odours. Always test a small area of the mattress to make sure the cleaning product is safe for your baby.

If the cot is taken apart, it will be easier to reach all of its surfaces and corners for thorough cleaning and sanitising. You can also use a solution of warm water and mild baby-safe detergent to clean the mattress and its protector.

If the cot is constructed from wood, it is possible to disinfect it using a mix of white vinegar and warm water. This natural disinfectant kills bacteria without harming the wood or leaving harmful residues. Test the mixture on a small area of the wood to ensure it won't damage it. Apply the solution using a soft clean cloth and let it dry prior to reassembling.

They're easy to move

A bedside crib is also known as a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper. It lets your baby to sleep right next to your bed. These cribs are compact and portable, making them easy to move from room to room when necessary. They are also ideal when your home is small or you are planning to travel with your child.

Unlike regular baby beds cribs for bedside use, they are designed to be attached to the sides of your bed so you can easily lift your newborn into and out for nighttime feedings and comfort. These cribs are designed with a drop-down or movable side that allows for easy lifting. They also have adjustable heights and tilts. Some cribs can even be converted into full cribs when your child gets older, giving you added longevity and value.

Our mum testers love the light and portable nature of these sleeping options, making them perfect for travel. "It's very compact and small and can easily fit into its own travel bag and be carried throughout the house with ease," says one mum. "My husband can carry it up and down the stairs with ease."

The Shnuggle Air along with Crib is a different, light option that has been shortlisted for the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards in the Best Cot, Moses Basket or Crib category. Gulhan Arapoglu is of the opinion that it's easy to move and is solid. She also says it's a bit bigger than other cradles for bed and not recommended for babies that might roll or flip.

They're comfy

The best bedside cribs allow newborns to sleep close to their parents however, they have their own sleeping space. They are usually much smaller than a Moses Basket or a standard crib and can be folded away and put away when not being used. It's also much more convenient to reach for feeds, diaper changes and even soothing. This makes them ideal for new mums recovering from a c-section since they won't have to bend down as much to care for their little one during the night.

The crib is also a good option for parents who are worried about the risks associated with co-sleeping. This is due to the fact that the crib is closer to the parent's bed and is less prone to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) than co-sleeping in a regular cot or bassinet. This type of safe co-sleeping called rooming in and is a vital part of a baby's early development.

You can also purchase various bedsides that include an inflatable mattress that you can carry with you when travelling and others that convert into a standalone baby cot or toddler bed. Some even have incline positions which are great for babies suffering from reflux. Based on your requirements and budget, you can also purchase a crib for your bed that is attached to the parent's bed or has locking wheels so it won't be accidentally moved while the baby is asleep.

If you're considering the bedside sleeper is a good idea to select one that has a durable and breathable mattress for your baby to ensure your little one's safety. We recommend choosing an inflatable mattress that is covered with a soft and durable cover. This will keep your baby warm and cozy while they sleep.

Some bedsides are also easy to collapse and slide and slide, which is ideal for those 3am feeds when you're tired. The Joie Roomie Glide, which was shortlisted in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket, is an example of a bedside cot that's super-easy to lower. It's also small enough to fit into its travel bag which is a plus for busy parents who are always on the move.