Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it versatile enough for travelling. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
A bedside crib enables you to monitor your baby from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the 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. baby bedside sleeper lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off 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 does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to turn the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also simple to put together. 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 good travel cot, which folds flat and popping 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 small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. 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 partially dismantled, so that you can access every nook and cranny for an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed it is important to consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be dangerous if your child falls out.
You'll also want to ensure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.
baby bedside cot '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 bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape with time and can increase 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.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be lowered so that you can feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's easy to set up 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 comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those with limited space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.