5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
bedside crib and travel cot for bedside (yogicentral.science)
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are connected to the side of the bed. They often have one side that can be dropped down to make it easier to reach, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it an easy and quick build. It folds up into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are on the smaller side so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their child all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have an integrated rocking feature. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and help them to sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm the baby. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds This is a big selling point for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&baby bedside crib Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of build and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without having to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier and then raise it again after you take baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to suit your baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics that will complement your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble - Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat before 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 on the larger side however it is still compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together although she thought the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover that is machine-washable. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. It's also a good idea to select a model that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so you can get into all the corners and crevices for an extensive cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there are no gaps or areas in which your child could fall down or get trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution because it could be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
You'll want to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby bedside co sleeper easily at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down 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, or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved 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 heavier and bulkier than some of the more portable cribs we've tried, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide 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 cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also loves how easy it is to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's even designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal option for those who have limited space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can carry around when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.