Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that is attached to the bed's side. They often have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the directions were clear. It was a quick build. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more portable. 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 zips that are easy to open." This crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have a side panel that can be lowered, giving you an easy access to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).

Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and help them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.

Some cribs for bedside crib co sleeper use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and 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 loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

You can watch your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside cots uk. It's a great choice for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit the baby's position.

If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat before slipping into a handy bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib (visit my homepage) is whether it has any additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.

Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase 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.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered to let you be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of co sleeper bedside cot-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.