Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They typically have a single side that can be put down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very easy to follow. It was a quick build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and easy 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 to allow for airflow and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items 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 instance, comes with removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it suitable for travel. It also has five different height adjustments to match your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel that allows you to turn the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabric options to complement your decor. bedside cot sale 's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their child during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom take into consideration whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
You'll also want to 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 chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was used previously 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 new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be lowered to let you feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also bulkier and heavier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with a limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.