A Step-By-Step Guide To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in an easy and quick build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are generally easy to put together, and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes them more transportable. baby bedside cot who was one of MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions and zips that are easy to open." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing the ability to be close to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to remain close to their child during the night, but don't wish to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from noise or light. This can help calm them down. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It also comes with 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of build as well as comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is a different favorite and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get up. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the associated risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some cribs let you keep the barrier down but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to divans and beds but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The spacious design comes with 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 the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabric options to match your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat before 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 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 about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. This will help keep it clean from leaky nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's an excellent idea to select a model that is able to be disassembled and partially dismantled, to allow you access to all the nooks and crannies for an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby doesn't slide off or become trapped.
In addition to being easy to clean, you'll also want a crib for your bed that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially important if you are using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their infant throughout the night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when choosing a bedside crib is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although remember that you should only use this feature with care, as it can be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also recommended to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one handed down from another person or bought second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the most recent 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 in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your sleeping space. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the day. They usually feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or come with additional features such as rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not only about its sleek and modern Scandi design. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested, but it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabrics. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs. These include an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this is a fantastic crib since it's "easy to reach your baby in the middle of the night to feed him without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, 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.