Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

They are small and simple to set up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be with their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co sleeper bedside Cot-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best bedside cots to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.

Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an attractive selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your little one from the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you take baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, however it is still small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for an extensive cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas that your child could fall down or get trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is especially important when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any additional features you might find useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be risky if your child is thrown out.

It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby bedside co sleeper, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or even converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also simple to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". She also loves how easy it is to clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those with limited space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.