Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the side of a bed. They typically have one side that can be lowered down for easy access, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were easy to follow. It was a simple build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your own bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can view your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by fears of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you are looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to read the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed 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 easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. bedside cot for twins will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's also a good idea to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there are no gaps or areas that your child could slip down or become trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one handed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal option for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.