Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the side of the bed. They usually have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies with 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 down to a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around moving. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you an easy access to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night, but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling point for families. bedside sleeper cot and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your child from the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby to your side to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the option of sleeping together without the risk (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics to complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's important to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is especially important in the case of 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 infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features that you may find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but remember that you should only use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was handed down 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 recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son grows out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with limited space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.