The Biggest Issue With Bedside Crib And Travel Cot, And How You Can Repair It

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs look similar to an infant bassinet, and are connected to the side of a bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build, and the instructions were extremely clear. It was a simple construction. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to put together

They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be set close 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." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around on the move.  4-in-1 bedside crib  comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their child at night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.

Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted before trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it versatile enough for travelling. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside crib lets you to keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily carry your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without having to get out of the bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can view your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). It's a large design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabric options to complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.

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 compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect all the corners.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to 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 slide off or become trapped.

You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

When selecting a crib for your bedside take into consideration whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can feel and see your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking or converting into an older crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with a small space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.