Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of the bed. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was easy to build and the instructions were extremely easy to follow. It was a quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to construct, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of your bed. wooden bedside cot is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and cozy
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large model with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase airflow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will complement your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a handy 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, but is still quite compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while 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 select an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When selecting a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs include a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a handy bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It's also simple to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it an ideal choice for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.