Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester 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 a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are on the smaller side so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around traveling. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help calm them down. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal 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 factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it versatile enough for travelling. It also has five different height settings to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and 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, however it is still small and easy to put onto your bed. click through the next web site found it straightforward to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could slide down or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their child during the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - although remember that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (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 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than other travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, making it an ideal option for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.