5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the sides of a bed. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It also folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set-up, so they can be placed near your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a handy bag. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside crib and cot use the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your own bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't want to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models have a built-in rocking bedside crib function. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial for children suffering from reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional prior to attempting it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help calm your baby down. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels as well as conversion kits and a tummy tilt, making it suitable for travel. It also has 5 different height settings to match 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 Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
A bedside cosleeper crib allows you to monitor your little one from the comfortable bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C-section as it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements however). Some cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is better for parents with concerns about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can be accommodated). It's a large design with an opening side panel and a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to fit the baby's position.
If you're looking for something little smaller, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to fit your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&baby bedside sleeper Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still relatively small and easy to put to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will help keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and spills. You should also choose a model that is easily disassembled, allowing you to clean and disinfect all the corners.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. Also, you should ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is especially important if you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your cot or crib has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend 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 introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're often referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to be able to see your baby and hold the baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments, and a handy storage shelf. It's also a little bit bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". It's also easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great choice for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.