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Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. 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 an additional side panel that can be adjusted 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 child throughout the night but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your child from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for a mother 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 cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.
If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that match your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat before slipping into a handy 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 easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
cots4tots is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is especially important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the panel down all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like 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, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It is also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as 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 a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.
