20 Things You Must Be Educated About Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs resemble an infant bassinet, and are attached to the side of the bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal 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 convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and easy to set up, meaning they can be set next to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It features multiple mesh windows that allow for ventilation, and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you the ability to be close to your baby without having to get out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their infant throughout the night but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which can be beneficial if your baby suffers from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some have storage compartments beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.
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 is a prime example. It has side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it a versatile travel bed. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular option. bedside cot used was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cosy and comfy
You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's an excellent option for new mums recovering from a C-section since it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies with no need to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the risk (check that your chosen model meets the latest safety requirements however). Some allow you to keep the barrier down but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have an apprehension of their little one rolling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to clip onto bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require some longer straps than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). bedside cot used 's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to move the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics to complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble - Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests assembled it quickly and didn't have to consult the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a handy bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's small and easy to connect to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. 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 all the corners.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot slide off or become trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important in the case of a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached 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 maintaining the safety of separate sleeping surfaces.
When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedside it is important to consider whether it has additional features that might be useful to you. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower 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 that has been handed down from someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most current standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. Most will include a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, be sure to speak to your GP about this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just due to its sleek design in Scandi. This crib comes with six height settings, as well as a useful shelf for storage. It's also a little larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also simple to clean thanks to the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other cribs for bed we've tested with, like an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son outgrows it". She also likes the ease of clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great choice for those with a little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.