Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

bedside crib travel cot cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They typically have one side that can be put down for easy reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was easy to build and the directions were very easy to follow. It was a quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to put together

They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting 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. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them calm. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside co sleeper cot crib allows you to monitor your baby from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C-section as you can easily carry your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then pop it up again after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child's ability to roll 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 specifications to be sure that your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to suit your baby's position.

If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits 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 small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at bedside baby sleeper cribs and travel cots, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose a product that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach 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 ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed, you should also consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be risky if your child is thrown out.

You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any 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 that has been handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember 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 just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when it's stored.

It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also simple to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cots cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also loves how easy it is to clean and that it feels sturdy and well made. It can be placed on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with a limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.