Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually have one side that can be dropped down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside 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 put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cot 6 months plus cribs feature a side panel which can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby and help them to fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. 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 also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the risk (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&baby bedside crib Awards best bedside cots Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.
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 put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and spills. It's important to choose one that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas that your child could slip down or become trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their child throughout the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should make use of this feature with caution, as it can be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot bedside crib cot or crib instead of using one that was handed down from another person or bought 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.
Multi-faceted
A bedside rocking crib crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed in order for 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 separate crib in the daytime. They usually include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also likes the ease of clean and how it feels sturdy and well made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those who have small space. It also comes with a handy bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.
bedside crib and travel cot (Pdc said)
