Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It also folds down to a 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 near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of the MFM’s home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was “super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips.” The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be lowered so that you can easily access your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but don’t want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.

A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use 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 example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height adjustments to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfortable bed. It’s an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.

Some cribs allow you to 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 cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you’ve lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.

The Luah – which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket – is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to suit the position of your baby.

If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It’s also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It’s also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a 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 easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.

Easy to clean

If you’re considering travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It’s important to choose a product that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising.

This is vital, as it’s the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces that your child could fall down or get trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you’ll also want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly important if you’re using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent’s side, which gives parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.

Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with additional features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt – although remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby’s head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.

It’s also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes 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 easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older crib for babies.

the original source is a consistently well-loved crib and it’s not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This one has six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It’s also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.

It’s simple to put together with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other cribs we’ve used including an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it’s “easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son grows out”. She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great choice for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.