Five Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
bedside crib and travel cot (wifidb.science writes)
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. They often have one side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very easy to follow. It was a simple build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to put together
foldable bedside crib cribs are typically easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height ensures it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close 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 be close to their child throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs can recline in a position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm the baby. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling point for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great choice for moms who are recovering from a C-section as you can easily lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. And the cosiest cribs also have mesh sides that are breathable so you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their child falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's an integrated setting for reflux and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to turn the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and clever fabrics to 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 good travel cot, folding down flat and popping 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 however it is still compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside travel cot crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When choosing a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
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 at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking bedside crib (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable and comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.