Bedside Crib and Travel Cot<br /><br />Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.<br /><br />MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.<br /><br />Easy to assemble<br /><br />Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more transportable. <a href="https://finch-self-2.thoughtlanes.net/how-to-save-money-on-small-bedside-cot">bedside crib that turns into cot</a> , 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." The 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 on any mattress.<br /><br />Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without having to step out of bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be close to their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).<br /><br />Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.<br /><br />Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.<br /><br />Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an important selling point for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&amp;Baby Awards.<br /><br />Cosy and cozy<br /><br />You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.<br /><br />Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to 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's ability to roll off their mattress.<br /><br /><br /><br />The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&amp;Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specs to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost airflow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to suit the position of your baby.<br /><br />If you're looking for something little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabric options to fit your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to consult the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.<br /><br />The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&amp;Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, however it is still compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.<br /><br />Easy to clean<br /><br />When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.<br /><br />This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.<br /><br />In addition to being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.<br /><br />Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - although keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your baby falls out.<br /><br />It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.<br /><br />It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot instead of using one that has been given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.<br /><br />Multi-faceted<br /><br />The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches 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 a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be removed to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted 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 an older baby cot or playpen.<br /><br />The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.<br /><br />It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit 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 in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.<br /><br />Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also loves how easy it is to 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 convenient carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.<br /><br />