Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were easy to follow. It was a simple build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. bedside crib to cot who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an attractive selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. travel cot bedside crib has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also has five different height settings to match your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

A bedside crib enables you to watch your child in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you have lifted baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.

If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.


The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It is also recommended to choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.

You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.

You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. Most will have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to 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 the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.

It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried 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 your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.