bedside crib and travel cot (click here to visit Metooo for free)

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They typically have a single side that can be put down for easy reach and some even have an incline that's ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It folds down to 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 placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.

Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.

Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib lets you to watch your child in the peace of your bed. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without getting out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but pop it up again after you take baby out. This is ideal for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a 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 even need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and popping into a bag for easy storage.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the best bedside cot uk Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&baby bedside sleeper Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still relatively small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is easily removed and partially dismantled so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that was given to you by someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A wooden bedside cot crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually include a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch 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, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This crib has six height settings, as well as a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it dust-free and clean when it's stored.

The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean using a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It has a few more extras than some of the 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 fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby bedside co sleeper during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also appreciates the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It can be set on divans, making it a great choice for those with a little space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.