Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were very simple. It was a simple build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM’s home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was “super easy to put together, with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open.” The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you’re traveling. 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 easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be with their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm the baby. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is a big selling factor for families. MFM’s 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it versatile enough for travelling. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It’s an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby’s face through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There’s an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you’re looking for something smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will match your decor. It’s also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn’t have to read the instructions. It’s also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

When you’re looking at travel cots and bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is crucial, since it’s the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn’t fall off or be trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you’ll need a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is particularly important if you’re using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent’s bed which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby’s feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It’s also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective 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. cotsfortots can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be removed to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into a 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, and not only because of its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings as well as an attractive shelf to store things on. It’s also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.

It’s easy to set up, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It’s also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cribs we’ve tried with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says it’s an excellent crib due to its “easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it”. She also likes how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have small space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.