Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They typically come with a side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the directions were clear. It was a simple build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be lowered to let you be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling point for families. 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 a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great choice for mothers who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it again after you take the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will match your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed 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 also found it easy to assemble, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. It's important to choose one that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas in which your child could fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. similar web site are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with 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, modern design. This crib has six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.