bedside crib and travel cot (https://hangoutshelp.net/user/salejewel28)

bedside crib travel cot cribs resemble the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

bedside co sleeper cribs are typically easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also function 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 be adapted to any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside travel crib use the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting 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. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted before trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help calm them down. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfy

You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you take baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the baby's position.

If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's 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 compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones 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. It's also a good idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib that turns into cot crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their child at night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and increase 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.

Versatile

The cheap bedside cot crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking 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, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.