bedside crib and travel cot (simply click the up coming document)

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were very easy to follow. It was a simple construction. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to assemble

They are small and simple to set up, meaning they can be set close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around traveling. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside crib travel use the option of a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be with their baby throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby bedside sleeper and aid them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.

Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.

Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib travel cot crib enables you to watch your little one in the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.

If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to look up the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at cheap bedside cot cribs or travel cots. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and dribbles. It's an excellent idea to choose one that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

This is vital, as 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 secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.

It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their baby throughout the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.

Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.

It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be removed to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.

The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer time before my son gets older". She also likes how easy it is to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.