Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. 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 simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel that can be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their infant throughout the night but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an attractive selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted 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 a great option for moms who are recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your infant towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you lift the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still quite compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable which can be washed in the machine. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, baby sick and spills. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being bedside cots uk to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their child at night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution as it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one handed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside 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 sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be lowered so that you can see your baby and touch him. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping with your baby however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This one has six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son outgrows it". bedside cots uk loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.