Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were clear. It was a fast build. It folds down to a compact 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 can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a large bedside crib feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.

The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside cot 6 months plus have a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some cribs that are foldable bedside crib can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and cozy

A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the side of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the baby's position.

If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat before slipping into a convenient bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for best bedside cots 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 set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.

You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib with changing Table crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.

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

It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective 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 at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be removed so that you can be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib has six height settings, as well as an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.