Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming the baby. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without getting out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can be accommodated). It's a spacious model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to consult the 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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. large bedside crib will help keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. It's also a good idea to choose one that is able to be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
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 reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great choice for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.