Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

bedside sleeper cot cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. They usually have one side that can be dropped down for easy access and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble, and the instructions were very easy to follow. It was a quick build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.

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

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.

Many bedside travel crib cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height settings to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

You can keep an eye on your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that let you see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have fears of their little one rolling off the edge of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will complement 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 requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and popping 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 compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and drips. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect all the corners.

This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby won't slide off or become trapped.

You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside it is important to consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside cot bed crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be removed to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold him. 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 the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have little space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.