Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of a bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very simple. It was a quick construction. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to assemble

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. 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 zips that are easy to open." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.

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

Many models come with built-in rocking functions. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

A lot of cribs with a bedside sleeper cot have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional 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 point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and cozy

You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside cots. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that 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 model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some allow you to lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah, which won 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 be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib according to the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something a smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will match your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat before 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 was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and dribbles. You should also choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas in which your child could slide down or become trapped.

Apart 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 particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and Bedside Crib and Travel Cot comfort them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.

Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - although be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care as it could be risky if your child is thrown out.

It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib travel cot crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be adjusted to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn bedside cot and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.

The instructions are simple and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean using an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great option for those with a small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.