5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to a bassinet and are connected to the side of the bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel cot bedside bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot bedside cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature a side panel which can be removed to let you easily access your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be close to their child throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Many bedside crib and cot cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was loved by our MFM home testers for being easy to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib according to the preferred position of your baby.
If you're looking for something little 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 incredibly easy to put together and Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and drips. It is also recommended to choose one that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. You'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or areas that your child could fall down or get trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially crucial when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any additional features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs new to market must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The amazon bedside cot crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to it is attached to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the day. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be lowered so that you can be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean using a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside crib and cot cribs we've tried with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great choice for those who have small space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.