Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

4-in-1 bedside crib cribs look similar to the bassinet that is attached to the sides of a bed. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds up into 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 placed near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.

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

Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor prior to attempting it.

A lot of bedside sleeper cot cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Many bedside baby sleeper cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib enables you to watch your baby in the comfort of your own bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section, because you can easily pull baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have fears of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics to complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat before 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 capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, baby sick and spills. It's important to choose one that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into every nook and cranny for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there are no gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slide down or become trapped.

You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside cot crib crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When choosing a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your baby falls out.

You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside co sleeper crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs 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 put 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 the bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few more features than other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is great 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 is old enough to use it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan bed, making it an ideal option for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.