Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. They typically have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach and some even have an incline setting that’s perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

They are compact and easy to set up, meaning they can be placed close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being “super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips.” This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don’t want to risk co-sleeping.

Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM’s 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It’s an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child’s ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah – which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, 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 specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It’s a large design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to increase air flow. In addition, there’s an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to accommodate your baby’s position.

If you’re seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement your decor. It’s also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn’t have to read the instructions. It’s also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.

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 found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect all the corners.

This is important, as it’s the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you’ll also want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent’s side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

You’ll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby’s feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It’s a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. view it should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it’s sometimes called it is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to 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 will also convert into a travel cot or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It’s also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

It’s easy to assemble with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It’s also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with 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 that this crib is wonderful because it is “easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it’s larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last a longer time before my son gets older”. It’s also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great choice for those with limited space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take with you when you’re traveling. A perfect all-rounder.