Armando Atkin

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are connected to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.

Easy to assemble

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of the 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 handy bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside crib and travel cot feature an additional side panel that can be adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby bedside sleeper without getting out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their infant at night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.

Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a GP or health visitor should be consulted before trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help calm them down. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also has five different height adjustments 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 Also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

A bedside crib enables you to monitor your child in the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their child falling 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, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabrics 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 even need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping into a handy bag.

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, but is still relatively compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and dribbles. It's important to select a model that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.

It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that has been passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib has six height settings, as well as 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 convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great choice for those with a little space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.