bedside crib and travel cot (https://articlescad.com/how-to-explain-foldable-bedside-crib-to-your-mom-261946.html)
Bedside cribs look like a bassinet and are attached to the sides of a bed. Some have a side that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were simple, resulting in a quick and easy build. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side to fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, one of our MFM home testers, was extremely pleased with the Maxi-Cosi for being "super easy to construct, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot 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 bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you easy access to your baby without the need to get out of bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or for those who want to be close to their child during the night, but don't want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in rocking function. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be helpful for children suffering from reflux or colic. It is best to use them under supervision, and a health professional or a GP is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with a canopy to protect your baby from light and noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment underneath, which is great for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
Some bedside cribs can be transformed into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an attractive selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It comes with removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy-tilt, making it ideal for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. The MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a crib that is placed at your bedside. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a c-section since you can easily carry your baby to your side for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co sleeper bedside cot-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the end 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 bedsteads however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to be sure that your bed can be accommodated). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel so you can rotate the crib to accommodate the position of your baby.
If you're seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs and a range of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't need to look up the instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds 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 better explained on the instruction manual.
Easy to clean
If you're considering travel cots and bedside cribs make sure they have a removable mattress cover that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spit-up, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the corners.
This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. You'll also want to check that the crib's sides are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could slide down or become trapped.
Apart from being easy to clean, you'll need a bedside rocking crib crib that is comfortable for your child and will fit comfortably into your own bed. This is particularly important in the case of a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents, allowing parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
You'll need to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring 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 cot, crib or travel bed, rather than using one passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure secure and efficient sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside sleeper cot crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) attaches to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot, or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this), or turning into an older baby cot or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. It comes with six height adjustments, and an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than other portable cribs we've tried and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free in storage.
It's simple to put together with clear instructions and a handy toolkit to help you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras in comparison to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and storage space.
Jasmin says this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets so it will last longer before my son is out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be positioned on a divan, which makes it a great option for those with limited space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.