bedside crib and travel cot (Suggested Reading)

Bedside cribs resemble a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They typically have one side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for bedside crib And Travel Cot breastfeeding mothers or parents who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your child from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.

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. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also has five different height settings to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play is a different popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you take baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for best bedside cots Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to accommodate your baby's position.

If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that will complement your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.

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 however it is still small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside sleeper cot cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It's also a good idea to choose one that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to every nook and cranny for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.

You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their child at night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside cot wooden crib is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be lowered so that you can be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into a baby cot bedside for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.

It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other bedside cribs we've tried with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as 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 larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal option for Bedside Crib and Travel Cot those with small space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.