Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that can be attached to the bed's side. They typically have a single side that can be put down for easy access and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the directions were extremely easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes 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 be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their infant during the night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
bedside cots uk of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and help them to sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety requirements). Others allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who have fears of their child falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as 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). It's a roomy design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It is also a great 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 capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
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 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 is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features you might consider useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time and increase 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.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. Most will have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place 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 come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or even turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, 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 larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those who have little space. It also comes with a convenient carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.