Why You Should Focus On Improving Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that fixes to the bed's side. They often have one side that can be lowered down for easy access, and some have an incline setting that's perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was simple to put together and the instructions were simple. It was a simple build. It also folds down to the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions, and zips that are easy to open." This crib can be used as a portable cot and comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of your bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who wish to remain close to their infant during the night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.
A lot of bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect 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 major selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also has five different height settings to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also called a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and cozy
A bedside crib enables you to watch your little one from the peace of your bed. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your baby towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of the bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements though). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a large model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to boost the flow of air. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib in accordance with your baby's preferred position.
If you are looking for something smaller, Tutti Bambini CoZee offers oak legs and a range of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble and Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to consult the instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be easily stuffed into bags.
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 simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to assemble however she was disappointed that the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is important, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their infant at night to feed and soothe them while maintaining the safety that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bed, you should also consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes 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 leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be removed to let you be able to see your baby and hold him. Some cribs allow you to put the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features like tilting, rocking, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. best bedside cot comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are clear and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also simple to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and air-tight fabric. It comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says it's a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son grows out of it". She also loves that it's easy to clean and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be set on divans, making it a great option for those who have little space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to carry around when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.