bedside crib and travel cot (click the next page)

Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

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

Easy to put together

bedside crib travel cribs are usually simple to set up and are on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming the baby. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfy

You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you lift the baby out. This is ideal for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the baby's position.

If you're seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits 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 however it is still compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. You should also select one that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and Bedside Crib and Travel Cot dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Versatile

A cheap bedside cot crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as rocking bedside crib, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for Bedside Crib and Travel Cot a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek design in Scandi. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.

It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful 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, which means it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also loves the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.