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 is attached to the bed's side. They usually have a single side that can be dropped down for easy reach and some come with an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were easy to follow. It was a quick construction. It folds down to the size of a small bedside cot bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They also tend to be 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." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature the option of a side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to stay close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.

Most models have an integrated rocking bedside crib feature. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby and help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted before trying this position.

A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.

Some cribs that are bedside can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is a big selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie which was the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib allows you to keep an eye on your baby in the comfortable bed. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, as you can easily lift baby up to you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The most cozy 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 let you lower the barrier but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and bedsteads, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can be accommodated). It's a large bedside cot model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to suit your baby's position.

If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to match your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.

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 attach onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when you are looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's important to select a model that can be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

This is important, as it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.

Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside cots crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has extra features that could be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.

You'll also want to ensure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.

It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one handed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet 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 often referred to) can be attached 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 standalone cribs during the day. They usually have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you put 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 will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP regarding this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not only about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, and a useful storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than the other comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy 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 a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few features than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets so it will last a longer time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's designed to fit on a divan, making it an ideal choice for those with small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.