Five Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot

bedside crib and travel cot (Full Guide)

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble 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 travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside 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 put together, with clear instructions, and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.

Some bedside crib to cot cribs feature 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 a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their infant throughout the night but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.

Many models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby bedside crib from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.

Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling point for 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 also comes with 5 different height settings to match your bed. It 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 (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.

Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.

If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and popping 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 small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This is crucial, since it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas in which your child could slide down or become trapped.

You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When choosing a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any 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 used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping area. They can be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features such as rocking, tilting, or even converting into an older baby cot.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

The instructions are clear and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other bedside co sleeper cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.