Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the sides of a bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very simple. It was a simple construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to 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 simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable cot and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
bedside crib that turns into cot feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered to let you easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their baby at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and aid them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an attractive selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to watch your child in the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specs to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will fit your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's also a good idea to select a model that is able to be removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only utilize this feature with care, as it can be risky if your child falls out.
You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely 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 latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger crib for babies.
bedside crib that turns into cot is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. This crib has six height settings, as well as a handy shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when stored.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as 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 is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son gets older". It's also easy to wipe down and 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. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.