10 Myths Your Boss Has About Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and travel cot bedside crib Cot
Bedside cribs look like an infant bassinet, and are attached to the sides of the bed. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It also folds down into a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're traveling. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be removed to allow you to easily reach your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their baby during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
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 can recline in a position, which is beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside baby bed come with a canopy to shield your child from light or sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an attractive selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside Crib With changing table crib enables you to monitor your child in the peace of your bed. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without getting out of your bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, so you can rotate the crib to suit the position of your baby.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that will complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to consult the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot bedside crib cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best cot bedside, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still quite compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and drips. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedside, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but remember that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
It is important 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 will not fall 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 has been given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be removed to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in an attractive bag that keeps it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows 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 bed making it an ideal choice for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.