bedside crib and travel cot (visit the website)

Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that fixes to the side of your bed. They often have one side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag to carry it around moving. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to easily access your baby without getting out of 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 wish to risk co-sleeping.

The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling point for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Play and Pack Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and cozy

You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib to cot crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without getting out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Others allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the end of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot for newborn Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will fit in with your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to look up the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side however it is still small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the corners.

This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas in which your child could fall down or get trapped.

You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features that you may consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be risky if your child is thrown out.

Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure 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 relying on one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside cots crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be removed to let you feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust 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 fabrics. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". It's also easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, making it an ideal option for those who have small space. It also comes with a handy bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.