Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were clear. It was a fast construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
bedside cot used cribs are generally easy to put together, and are on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be 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 assemble with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for twin bedside cot use a side panel that can be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby at night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to protect your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an attractive selling feature 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 also has 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib or cot crib lets you to monitor your baby in the peace of your bed. It's a great 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 with no need to get out of your bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you take baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a large design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that match 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, without requiring any instructions. It is also a great 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 size but is still small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel bedside crib cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that is able to be disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. 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 firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just because of its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other bedside cot bed cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.
