bedside crib and travel cot (https://scientific-programs.science/)

bedside baby sleeper cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that fixes to the side of your bed. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together, and the instructions were clear. It was a quick construction. It folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.

Easy to assemble

They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant at night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be very relaxing for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your child 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 used have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&baby bedside co sleeper Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.

If you're looking for something a smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabric options to fit your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still relatively small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cot mattress cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's important to choose a product that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

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

Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be risky if your child is thrown out.

You'll also want to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in 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 purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside travel cot crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also bulkier and heavier than other travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.