5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically easy to put together, and are on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot bedside crib cot and comes with a handy bag. It features multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside crib vs cot feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to allow you to be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mums or parents who want to be with their baby throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your child in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get up. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is better for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabric options to complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and popping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the best bedside cots Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still quite compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's also a good idea to select a model that is easily disassembled and dismantled in parts, so that you can access every nook and cranny for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to easily access to their child throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should make use of this feature with caution as it could be risky if your child falls out.
Also, you should make sure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that fits snugly in the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet 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 passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or include additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.
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 handy shelf for storage. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit to aid you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with a limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.