Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. visit the following post folds up into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside 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 function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light and noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you lift baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will match 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 in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still quite small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did feel the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel down all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek design in Scandi. This crib has six height settings, as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
small bedside cot are simple and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also simple to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It has a few more features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.