Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were simple. It was a simple construction. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are on the smaller side so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This 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 for breathability and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. check out your url is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or parents who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.
Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The 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 is also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby up to you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the option of sleeping together without the risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you have lifted baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side however it is still compact and easy to attach onto 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
Find cribs with 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 dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's an excellent idea to choose one that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. You'll also want to check that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
You'll also want to make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you 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 come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (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 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib comes with six height settings, as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It is also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also appreciates the ease of clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.