Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. see this website have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be set next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions, and zips that are easy to open." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before attempting it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
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. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as 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. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
A bedside crib enables you to watch your little one in the comfortable bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs 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 sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you have lifted the baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib 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 make sure your bed can accommodate). bedside co sleeper comes with an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to turn the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.
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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is easily removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll 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 are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their child during the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into 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 passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually have a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. The crib comes with six height settings as well as an attractive shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in 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 included to assist you. It's also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also loves the ease of clean and how it feels solid and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great choice for those who have little space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.