Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of the bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were clear. It was a fast build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making 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 easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be lowered to let you easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling point 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 tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to monitor your little one in the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. And the most cozy 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 with no risk. (Make bedside cot wooden that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib 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 be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, however it is still compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. bedside crib and travel cot 's also a good idea to choose a product that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
When selecting a crib for your bedside take into consideration whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to 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 a separate crib during the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
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 fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son grows out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.