5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. They usually come with a side that can be dropped down for easy access, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to assemble and the instructions were extremely easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that is beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and noise, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside crib vs cot use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
A small bedside cot crib allows you to watch your little one from the comfort of your own bed. It's a great choice for moms who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily lift your baby towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that you can view your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you take the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion 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 looking for something little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will fit your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to choose one that is easily removed and partially dismantled so that you can access all the corners and crevices to conduct an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features that you may find useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - although keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care as it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than relying on one that was passed down 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 new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A 4-in-1 bedside crib crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be lowered so that you can be able to see your baby and hold 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 a bed. Some cribs will also convert 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 changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, and not just due to its sleek Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than the other travel-friendly cribs we've tested however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son grows out of it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.