Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are attached to the sides of the bed. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were simple. It was a simple construction. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. bedside crib to cot can help to calm them down. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing 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 and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's a great option for mothers 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 without having to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can view your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then pop it up again after you lift the baby out. This is better for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards for the 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 your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering bedside cribs and travel cots, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spills, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is able to be removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their baby at night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When selecting a crib for your bedside, you should also consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. 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 is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be removed so that you can be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This crib has six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more features than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also likes the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.