Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically 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 transportable. 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." This 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 fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their child during the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and help them 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 with supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling point 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, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and stylish fabrics to complement your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
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
When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and drips. It's important to choose a product that is easily removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies for an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt 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.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
When choosing a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only use this feature with care because it could be risky if your child is thrown out.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with 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 fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. Click At this website 's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal option for those with small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.