Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, and others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were extremely clear. It was a fast construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their child throughout the night but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs let you 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). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who have an apprehension of their little one rolling 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 clip on to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). 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. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that 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 size but is still small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. bedside crib with wheels to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed take into consideration whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. 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 is thrown out.
You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that has been handed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually have a side panel which can be removed so that you can feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
cheap bedside cot to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also simple to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few more features than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.