Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds up into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to put together with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their child all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Click At this website offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one from the comfortable bed. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you are looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that will match 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 needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in 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's also a good idea to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, to allow you access to all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the sides of the crib are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or areas in which your child could fall down or get trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When selecting a crib for your bed, you should also consider whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
You'll also want to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because the baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) is attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also simple to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it an ideal choice for those who have limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.