bedside crib and travel cot (Keep Reading)

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina who was one of 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 has multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that is beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.

Most cribs with a bedside travel crib come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height settings to match your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfortable

You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your infant towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so 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 crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you take baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large bedside crib design has an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to suit your baby's position.

If you're looking for something smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for best bedside cot Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect all the nooks.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their child during the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

When choosing a crib for your bed, you should also consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

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 decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches 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. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this), or turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, making it an ideal option for those with small space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.