Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

foldable bedside crib cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were easy to follow. It was a quick construction. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside 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 assemble with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be close to their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.

A lot of bedside crib with changing table cribs have a canopy over them to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some cribs for 4-in-1 bedside crib use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling point for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together as well as 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

You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a foldable bedside crib crib. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the end 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 be sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.

If you're looking for something smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabric options to fit your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still quite compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and drips. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect all the nooks.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and will fit comfortably into 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, which gives parents to have easy access to their infant at night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.

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

It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib and cot crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. They usually include a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as a useful shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when stored.

The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.