Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the directions were simple. It was a fast build. It folds up into the smallest 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 fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes 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." bedside cot reviews can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered to let you easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums, or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and can help them 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 prior to trying this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming the baby. bedside crib co sleeper come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib allows you to monitor your child in the peace of your bed. It's a great choice for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabric options to fit your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also select one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
You'll also want 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 are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to ensure 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 because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. 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 a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those with small space. It also comes with a convenient carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.