Five Killer Quora Answers On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. They typically come with a side that can be put down to make it easier to reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi Lora crib for being "super easy to construct with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height means it will fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who wish to remain close to their baby during the night, but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a comforting experience for your baby and aid them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Many cribs for bed have a canopy over them to protect your child from light or noise, which is helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Some bedside cots cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds This is an attractive selling factor for families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed, conversion kits and a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed, and was praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of put together as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&baby bedside co sleeper Award.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside co sleeper cot crib enables you to monitor your little one from the peace of your bed. It's the ideal solution for a mom who is recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without having to get up. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can see your newborn 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 requirements). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted the baby out. This is a good option for parents who are concerned about their child rolling off 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, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). It's a large design with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to increase air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as the 360 swivel, to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabric options that will match your decor. It's also incredibly easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot that folds flat and popping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Find cribs with mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while looking at bedside cribs or travel bedside crib cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles leaky diapers, and spit-up. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the corners.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Make sure that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place 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 are designed to attach securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their infant throughout the night for feeding and comforting while still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it comes with additional features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but remember that you should only utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your baby is thrown out.
It is also important to make sure that your cot or crib has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Used mattresses tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib vs cot crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your sleeping space. They can also be used as a separate crib in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted to allow you to see your baby and touch the baby. 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 also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib, and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. This one has six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our other cribs that are more portable however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.
It's easy to assemble with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also simple to clean with the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle 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 is old enough to use it". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great choice for those who have little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.