Five Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the side of your bed. They typically have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some even have an incline setting that's perfect for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build, and the instructions were clear. It was a simple construction. It also folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for transport.

Easy to assemble

They are compact and easy to set-up, so they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height means it can fit on any mattress.

Some cribs for bedside crib vs cot use an additional side panel that can be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without having to step out of your own bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their child all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

Most models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be extremely relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult a doctor or health visitor before attempting it.

A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to protect your child from light or sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go for instance, comes with removable side panels, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height settings to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for being easy to build, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as the pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfortable

A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your baby from the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a csection, as you can easily lift baby up to you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that are breathable so which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs let you 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 but then raise it again after you lift the baby out. This is a good option for parents concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.

The Luah, which won the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to be attached to divans and beds however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure your bed is able to accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated setting for reflux and the 360 swivel, that allows you to turn the crib to fit your baby's position.

If you're looking for something a little smaller the Tutti Bambini CoZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabric options to fit your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without requiring any instructions. It's also a great travel cot bedside crib cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.

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 but is still quite compact and easy to attach into your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble although she thought the instructions could have been clearer regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, sick babies and spills. It's also a good idea to choose a product that is able to be removed and partially dismantled so that you can access all the corners and crevices to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall down or get trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a large bedside crib crib that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and soothe their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

Another thing to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for sleepers who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only use this feature with care because it could be risky if your child falls out.

It is also important to ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head will not fall into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one passed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape with time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Multi-faceted

The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down throughout the night, giving you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features such as rocking, tilting, or converting into a larger crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This crib comes with six height settings, as well as a handy shelf for storage. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with an attractive bag that keeps it dust-free and clean when stored.

The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few more amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, 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 to provide a relaxed feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so 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 divans, making it a great choice for those who have small space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.