Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They typically have one side that can be dropped down for easy access and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around moving. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
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 which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel companion. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your baby in the comfortable bed. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have a fear of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious model with an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that 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, without having to look up any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
Look for bedside co sleeper that come with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their baby during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When selecting a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be removed to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also simple to clean thanks to an easy-to-clean mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more features than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also loves how easy it is to clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.