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 can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have an end that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others come with an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found the crib to be easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
bedside cots for newborns cribs are usually easy to put together, and are on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." The crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside cosleeper have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and aid them to sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful if your child has reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Most cribs with a bedside have a canopy over them to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an important selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has five different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was loved by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard Also called a Pack and Play, is another popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside cosleeper crib. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your child towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that the crib you choose meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by fears of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 that allows you to turn the crib to fit your baby's position.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to look up the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from leaky nappies, sick babies and drips. It is also recommended to choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Verify that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want an infant crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be connected securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the safety that separate sleeping areas provide.
When selecting a crib for your bed, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll need to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because the baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) can be attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib during the day. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you 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 also be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek Scandi design. This crib comes with six height settings, as well as a handy shelf to store things on. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It has a few more extras than some of the other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer before my son is out of it". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take along when traveling. A perfect all-rounder.