Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build, and the instructions were clear. It was a quick construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. cheap bedside cot has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
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 a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design that has an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
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's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped 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 somewhat larger, but is still relatively compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their baby during the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be 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 risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great option for those with limited space. It also comes with a convenient carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.