5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
bedside crib and travel cot (click to find out more)
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that can be attached to the bed's side. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It folds down to the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to stay close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and aid them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised 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 another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to watch your child from the comfortable bed. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out, 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 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you're looking for something little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics that will match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to look up the instructions. It is also a great travel 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 straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at large bedside crib cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. You should also choose one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas that your child could slip down or become trapped.
In addition to 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 particularly important when you're using a bedside cot bed crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their baby at night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with additional features that you may find useful. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly 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 travel cot or crib instead of using one that was given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and can increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be removed to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like rocking bedside crib, tilting, or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings, as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it free of dust and clean when stored.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and storage space.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with small space. Additionally, it comes with a convenient carry bag to take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.