5 Killer Quora Answers To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
bedside baby sleeper Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be adjusted to allow easy access, while others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to put together and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to put together
They are small and easy to set up, so they can be set next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a handy bag to carry it around on the move. It features multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow and the adjustable height makes it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be removed so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without getting out of the bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be with their baby all night long but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a very soothing experience for your baby and aid them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise or light. This can help calm them down. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds This is an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for its comfort, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can keep an eye on your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside crib. It's a great option for a mother recovering from a c-section as you can easily lift baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The most cozy cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose is compliant with the current safety standards). Some allow you to lower the barrier but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who have a fear of their little one rolling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than some other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux, and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib according to your baby's preferred position.
If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs and a range of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together - Georgina, who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a bag for easy storage.
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 relatively small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at bedside cribs and travel cots be sure to look for models that come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. It's an excellent idea to choose one that is able to be removed and partially dismantled so that you can access all the nooks and crannies to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is vital, since it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Check that the sides of the crib are secure so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll need an infant crib that is comfortable for your baby and is compatible with your own bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their baby during the night to feed and soothe them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a bedside crib is if it comes with additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are fussy.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot bedside crib cot rather than relying on one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter 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 sometimes called it is attached to the bed to allow you to access your baby easily at night without leaving your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs let you keep the panel closed throughout the night, giving you the closeness and convenience of co-sleeping with your newborn, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Others have additional features, such as tilting, rocking, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than many of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when stored.
It's easy to assemble, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other bedside co sleeper cribs we've tried with, like 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 in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son grows out". It's also easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. Additionally, it comes with a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.