bedside crib and travel cot (glenn-nielsen.Federatedjournals.com)

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

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

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

Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some 4-in-1 bedside crib cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an important selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height adjustments to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside crib allows you to watch your little one from the comfortable bed. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&baby bedside sleeper Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit the 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 clever fabric options to complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to look up the instructions. It's also a great 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect all the nooks.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could fall down or get trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside cot co sleeper crib is whether it has any additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like tilting, rocking, or Bedside Crib and Travel Cot converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not only because of its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested, 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 that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few more amenities 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 it's a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those who have little space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.