Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside 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 simple 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 bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be with their baby throughout the night, but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be very relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing 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 point for many families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. bedside crib that turns into cot has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you're seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and popping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however 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 in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and spills. It's also a good idea to choose one that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the corners and crevices for an efficient cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of the crib are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or spaces that your child could slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their infant at night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy 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 aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
bedside cot wooden 's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that has been given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to 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 standalone cribs in the daytime. Most 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 down all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like rocking, tilting, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean using a machine washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with little space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.