Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the bed's side. They often come with a side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were simple. It was a fast construction. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option 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 having to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat before slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still quite compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also choose one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be 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 fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to easily access to their child during the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent 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 having to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like tilting, rocking or converting into a larger baby cot.
cheap bedside cot is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the 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 to aid you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It has a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also loves the ease of clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great option for those with a little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.