Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

foldable bedside crib cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the side of your bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build and the directions were simple. It was a quick build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.

Easy to put together

They are small and simple to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They are also 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 simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their baby at night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming them down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a wooden bedside cot crib. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib according to your baby's preferred position.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to fit your decor. It's also super-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 is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.

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 small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your own bed. This is especially important if you are using a twin bedside cot crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - although be aware that you should only use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk 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 buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time, increasing 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 baby sleeper crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are clear and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more features than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.