Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that is attached to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for babies who have reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the directions were simple. It was a quick build. It folds into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, meaning they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. Georgina, who was one of the 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." The crib can be used as a portable travel crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. 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 adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their infant during the night, but don't want to risk co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a comforting experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that is beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
A lot of bedside crib vs cot cribs come with a canopy to shield your child from light or sound, which can be beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.
Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels, a conversion kit, and a tummy tilt that makes it ideal for travel. It has five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a different popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
You can monitor your child from the in the comfort of your bed using the bedside rocking crib crib. It's a great option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, because you can easily pull baby to your side to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but pop it back up after you've lifted baby out of the crib, which is better for parents who have a fear of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Award for Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specs to be certain your bed is able to accommodate). It's a roomy model with an opening side panel as well as a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion to increase the flow of air. There's also an integrated set-up for reflux as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to suit your baby's preferred position.
If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and smart fabric options to match your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without requiring any instructions. It's also a fantastic travel cot. It folds flat and can be popped into bags.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for best bedside cot uk Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger size, yet it's compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.
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 allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely connected, ensuring there are no gaps or areas that your child could slip down or become trapped.
It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib with changing table crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed and allow parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while ensuring the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is whether it has any additional features that you may find useful. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who tend to be fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a firm and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than using one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more likely to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, also known as a co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to it is attached to the bed to allow you to reach your baby easily during the night without leaving your sleeping area. They can be used as a separate crib in the daytime. They usually have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and comfortable with your baby while minimizing the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Others have additional features such as tilting, rocking, or converting into a larger crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not just because of its sleek design in Scandi. This one has six height adjustments, as well as an excellent 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 dust-free and clean when it's stored.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide 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. These include an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's a great crib because it's "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed without fuss, and larger than most Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son is out of it". She also loves the ease of clean and is sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those who have small space. It also comes with an easy-to-carry bag that you can take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.