5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super straightforward to build with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their child throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs have a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one in the comfortable bed. It's the ideal solution for a new mum recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby bedside cot through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co sleeper bedside cot-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you're seeking something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs with a variety of fabric options that will match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together - Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to consult the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also on the larger side but is still relatively small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and spills. It's important to select a model that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to have easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with extra features you might find useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but be aware that you should only utilize this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel cot bedside crib bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The wooden bedside cot crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot, or come with additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than other portable cribs we've tried, 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 is also easy to clean thanks to a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on divans, making it a great choice for those with a small space. It also comes with a handy bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.