Five Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of a bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
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 also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora 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 convenient bag for when you're moving. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be adjusted so that you can easily reach your baby without stepping out of the bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mums or those who wish to be close to their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with 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 offer a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mother recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby to your side for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check that the crib you choose is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by fears of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards best bedside cot Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to turn the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and clever fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a convenient 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 relatively small bedside cot and easy to put to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of spills, leaky diapers, and spit-up. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slip down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, which gives parents to have easy access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When selecting a crib for your bedroom, you should also consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. For instance, some cribs have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but remember that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be risky if your child is thrown out.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached 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 standalone cribs during the day. Most will feature a side panel which can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of co-sleeping with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than other travel-friendly cribs we've tested, but it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "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 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 an ideal choice for those with little space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.