Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the sides of a bed. They often have a single side that can be dropped down for easy access and some come with an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very simple. It was a simple construction. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily access your baby without having to get out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to stay close to their child at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful in the case of reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
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 side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together as well as comfortable and 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.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat before slipping 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 on the larger side but is still relatively small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. bedside crib with changing table will keep it clean and free of spills, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their child at night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When choosing a crib for your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to it is attached to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this), or 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 and modern Scandi design. bedside crib vs cot comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free 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 an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.