5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that can be attached to the bed's side. They often come with a side that can be dropped down for easy access, and some have an incline that's ideal for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together, and the instructions were easy to follow. It was a quick construction. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to build with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an important selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home test participants praised it for its comfort and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the most cozy cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn bedside cot through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics to fit your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside crib travel cot cribs and travel cots, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's important to select a model that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to easily access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib vs cot crib is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one that was handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually include a side panel that can be moved down so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just because of its sleek, modern design. This one has six height adjustments, as well as a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby during the night to feed him without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, so it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it a great choice for those with small space. Plus, it has an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.