Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They usually come with a side that can be put down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline that's ideal for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the instructions were very clear. It was a fast construction. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.

Easy to put together

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be set next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some bedside cribs feature a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside crib travel cot use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. And the most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for best bedside cot uk Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase airflow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel that allows you to turn the crib to accommodate the baby's position.

If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and popping into a bag for easy storage.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still relatively small and easy to put to 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 with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cots for newborns cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the sides of the crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet 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 use one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be lowered so that you can feel your baby's hand and see him. Some have the option to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf for storage. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than other portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

The instructions are simple and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.