5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It also folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for traveling.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to construct, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a soothing experience for your baby and help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to a doctor or health visitor prior to attempting it.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to protect your child from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store additional blankets, diapers, and clothing for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an attractive selling factor 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, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it a versatile travel bed. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed. It was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside cot 6 months plus crib enables you to keep an eye on your baby from the peace of your bed. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby up to you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that let you see your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you take the baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, cot bedside, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib according to the position your baby prefers.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabrics that complement your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at bedside cribs and travel bedside crib cots, look for ones that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it free of leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely secured to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their child during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom take into consideration whether it has extra features that might be useful to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet will not fall into folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than use one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. Most will feature a side panel which can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some have the option to keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping with your baby, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.
It's easy to set up with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras than some of the other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby during the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last a longer period of time before my son gets older". It's also easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.