Five Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that is attached to the bed's side. They usually have one side that can be lowered down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
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 also folds down into a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside cot used have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds and is an attractive selling feature for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your baby from the comfort of your own bed. It's the ideal solution for a mother recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you take baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds, but requires longer straps (check your specs to make sure your bed is able to accommodate). It's a large model with an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics that will match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a great 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 however it is still compact and easy to fit into your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It's important to select a model that can be removed and partially dismantled so that you can access 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. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could slip down or become trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside baby bed crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents to easily access to their infant at night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib co sleeper crib is if it comes with additional features that you may consider 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 flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses 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 introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside cot 6 months plus crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing a bed. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking or converting into a larger baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than the other portable cribs we've tried however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and the breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is great 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 for a longer time before my son gets older". She also appreciates the ease of clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, making it a great option for those with limited space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.