Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the bed's side. They often have one side that can be put down for easy access, and some have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside 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 assemble, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for 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 an easy access to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.

Most cribs with a bedside cot sale come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.

A lot of bedside cribs 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, for example, has removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making 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 its ease of assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a large bedside cot crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby bedside cot's growth.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to accommodate the baby's position.

If you're looking for something a little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to fit 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 and without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best 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, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. You should also select one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is especially important in the case of a Bedside Rocking crib crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their baby at night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

Another thing to think about when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be risky if your child falls out.

You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape with 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 safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside cot 6 months plus crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some have the option to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek, modern design. This crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.

Jasmin says it's 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, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes the ease of clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.