Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that is attached to the bed's side. They usually come with a side that can be put down for easy reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and Bedside Crib And Travel Cot comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby during the night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and aid them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.

Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being easy to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside crib travel. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot for newborn Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics to complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a convenient 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 relatively compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cot reviews cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important when you're using a co-sleeping bedside cot used crib. These are designed to attach 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 maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When selecting a crib for your bedside take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than use one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually include a side panel that can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It has a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says it's a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great option for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.