5 Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that can be attached to the bed's side. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found the crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It folds into a compact size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
bedside crib vs cot cribs are generally simple to set up and are on the smaller side to can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of the 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 be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It has multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation and the adjustable height ensures it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for twin bedside cot use the option of a side panel that can be removed so that you can easily access your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers or parents who want to be with their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models come with built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be very relaxing for your baby and can help them sleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have an umbrella to protect your baby from noise and light. This can help calm the baby. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also has 5 different height adjustments to fit your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to 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 popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your little one in the comfortable bed. 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 without getting out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards however). Others allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who are afflicted by a fear of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require a few more straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a spacious design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to increase airflow. There's an integrated setting for reflux, and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something smaller in size, the Tutti Bambini CoZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics that will match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together as Georgina who participated in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't even need to read the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before slipping into a bag for easy storage.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size but is still small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up although she thought the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're considering bedside crib or cot cribs and travel cots make sure they have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. It's important to choose a product that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to cot crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are a bit fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head 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 relying on one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside cosleeper crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed in order for you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while taking care to minimize 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 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. This model comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs, but it comes in a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean, with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It has a few more amenities than other bedside cribs we've tried including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". It's also easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great choice for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.