Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that can be attached to the bed's side. They usually have a single side that can be put down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline that's ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this 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

They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be set next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.

Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their baby at night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.

Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.

A lot of bedside cot co sleeper cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib with wheels crib allows you to monitor your child from the comfortable bed. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you take the baby out. This is ideal for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specs to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the baby bedside crib's position.

If you're looking for something smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics to complement your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.

The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.

You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside rocking crib crib that sleeps with your child. 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 soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll also want to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about 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 design in Scandi. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also simple to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". 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 with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.