5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the side of your bed. They usually have a single side that can be put down for easy access and some even have an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together, and the instructions were extremely easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.

Easy to put together

bedside crib travel cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside cot used use an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby and aid them to sleep. Some cribs have a reclining position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted prior to trying this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some have storage compartments underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it suitable for travel. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed and was loved by our MFM home testers for being easy to assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great choice for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you have lifted baby out. This is a good option for parents with concerns about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for best bedside cot for newborn Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specs to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. There's an integrated setting for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabric options to match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't need to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still quite small and easy to put into your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and drips. You should also select a model that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or spaces that your child could slide down or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside crib that is comfortable for your child and is compatible with your bed. This is particularly important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is whether it comes with extra features you might consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.

You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into 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 passed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed to allow 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 adjusted to let you see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking bedside crib (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this) or changing into a baby cot for bedside for older children or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than 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 easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit included to assist you. It is also easy to clean with a machine washable mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.

Jasmin says it's 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 likes that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. Plus, it has a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.