Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the sides of the bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together, and the instructions were clear. best bedside cot for newborn was a simple build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to construct, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night, but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs have a storage area underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an attractive selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's a great option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn 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 keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're considering bedside cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and spills. It's also a good idea to choose one that is able to be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into every nook and cranny for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Other cribs come with 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. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also simple to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, making it an ideal option for those who have limited space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.