Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were clear. It was a simple construction. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also 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 easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot bedside, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.

Some bedside crib with changing table cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered to let you easily reach your baby bedside sleeper without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or parents 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 to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or noise, which can be 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.

Some bedside cribs can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched 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 is also called a Pack and Bedside Crib and Travel Cot Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your little one in the peace of your bed. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics to match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together - Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a convenient bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's also a good idea to choose one that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so that you can access every nook and cranny for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib with wheels crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

When selecting a crib for your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.

You'll also want to ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance 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 use one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn bedside cot, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with limited space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.