foldable bedside crib cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
bedside cot wooden cribs are typically easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being « super straightforward to build with clear instructions and simple zips. » This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you’re traveling. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their infant throughout the night but don’t want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM’s 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also has five different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It’s an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then raise it again after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents with concerns 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 it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you’re looking for something little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics to match your decor. It’s also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn’t need to read the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for best bedside cot uk 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 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 cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. It’s important to select a model that is able to be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the corners and crevices for an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, as it’s the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent’s side, allowing parents easy access to their baby at night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom take into consideration whether it comes with extra features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt – but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.
It is also important to ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby’s head and feet won’t get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It’s also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside cot 6 months plus crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they’re sometimes known) is attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch him. Some have the option to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking or converting into a larger baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it’s not just about its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It’s also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.
The instructions are clear and there’s a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It’s also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it is « easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it ». She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. Additionally, it comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.