Five Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

bedside crib or cot cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the bed's side. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the instructions were clear. It was a fast build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their infant throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.

Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted before trying this position.

A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside cot newborn crib allows you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then pop it up again after you have lifted baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabrics that will fit your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a great 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 slightly larger than the average, but is still quite compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.

Easy to clean

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

This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.

It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.

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 won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel cot bedside crib-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.

The instructions are clear and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.

Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and is sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.