Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached 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 simple to put together and the directions were very simple. It was a quick construction. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be lowered to let you be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their infant throughout the night but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby to your side 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 which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you take baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, 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 specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a convenient bag.
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 but is still relatively compact and easy to fit onto your bed. bedside co sleeper cot found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots make sure they come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
bedside cot for twins 'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When choosing a crib for your bedside take into consideration whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat 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 do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. bedside travel cot will have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great choice for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.