Five Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot

bedside crib and travel cot (recent Humanlove blog post)

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have a side that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It also folds down into the size of a small bedside cot bag and comes with a handy bag for travel cot bedside crib.

Easy to put together

Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a travel crib, and it comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.

Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be removed to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be extremely comforting for your baby and can help them 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. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.

A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.

A lot of bedside travel crib cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Pack and Play is a popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib enables you to watch your little one from 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 up to you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a large model with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something a smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and stylish fabrics to fit your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a handy bag.

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 straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby won't slide off or become trapped.

In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily access their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.

It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". She also loves how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with little space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.