Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are attached to the sides of the bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some come with an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the directions were very clear. It was a simple construction. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. 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 easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be removed to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cribs 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 which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an important selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent 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 getting out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of 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 comes with an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble and Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a 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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's important to select a model that is easily removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to every nook and cranny for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
similar web site is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has extra features that may 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 is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than use one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs include a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. This one has six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son grows out". It's also easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great choice for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.