Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside 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 lowered down for easy reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
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 down to the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to put together with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. bedside crib or cot comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their child falling off the side 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 make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). It's a large model with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.
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 easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped 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 however it is still compact and easy to attach onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their child during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk 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 buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. They usually include a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you 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 transformed into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings, as well as a handy shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer time before my son grows out". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.