Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.

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

Easy to assemble

They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around traveling. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their baby at night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.

Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.

Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby bedside co sleeper.

A lot of bedside cot bed cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib lets you to watch your child in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you take baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented 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 move the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you are seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It is also very simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and 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 but is still small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will help keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and drips. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is able to be removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

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

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your own bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside cot newborn crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.

Also, you should make sure that your cot bedside or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease 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 purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must 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, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed to sleep. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children 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 little bit bulkier and heavier than other comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy 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's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.