Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your own bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help calm your baby down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your little one in the peace of your bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). click here let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you have lifted baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and drips. It's also a good idea to select a model that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially important if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside take into consideration whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but remember that you should only use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that was handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which 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 known) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than other comfortable cribs that we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great choice for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.