bedside crib And travel cot (sovren.Media)

Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.

Easy to assemble

bedside cot crib cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be with their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.

Some cribs for bedside sleeper cot use can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib enables you to watch your little one from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted baby out. This is better for parents who are 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 attach to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.

If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still relatively compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots 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 dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the corners.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.

It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.

You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib travel cot crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be removed so that you can be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings as well as a handy shelf for storage. It's also bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried, but it 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 that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby during 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". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great choice for those with small space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.