Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds up into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. 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 simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be adjusted to let you be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and 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 suitable for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. bedside crib with changing table (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will match your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
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 also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect all the nooks.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. You'll also want to check that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be risky if your child is thrown out.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Used official source tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. best bedside cot for newborn is the most recent standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be removed so that you can see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about 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 Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few 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 great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son grows out". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal choice for those with small space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.