Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that is attached to the bed's side. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to stay close to their child at night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and aid them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help in calming them down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.

Some cribs for bedside cot mattress use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib allows you to watch your little one from the peace of your bed. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot for newborn Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel that allows you to turn the crib to accommodate the baby's position.

If you're looking for something a smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabric options to fit your decor. It's also incredibly easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for best bedside cot uk Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is crucial, since it's the best bedside cot way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas that your child could slide down or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside, you should also consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.

You'll also want to ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce 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 relying on one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) is attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when it's stored.

The instructions are clear and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.

Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so 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 set on divans, making it a great choice for those who have limited space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.