Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

4-in-1 bedside crib cribs resemble a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. They usually have a single side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually simple 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, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to put together 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 fit any mattress.

Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).

Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.

Many cribs for bed come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm them down. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store 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 factor for families with children. 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 also has five different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your baby from the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specs to be 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 increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.

If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping 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 somewhat larger, however it is still small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at large bedside crib cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's an excellent idea to choose a product that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside cot crib crib is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to it is attached to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted so that you can see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping with your baby and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek, modern design. This crib has six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when stored.

It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few features than other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it a great option for those who have limited space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.