Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the sides of the bed. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be set next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their baby during the night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have a storage area underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and 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 comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your child towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to accommodate the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
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 however it is still compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
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. foldable bedside crib will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's important to select a model that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby at night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted 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 a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist 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 bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since 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 likes how easy it is to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.