Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have sides that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that this crib was simple to put together and the directions were extremely simple. funny post was a fast construction. It also folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
They are compact and easy to set up, so they can be set close to your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more transportable. Georgina 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." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature an additional side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to easily reach your baby without getting out of bed. This is a great choice for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated rocking feature. This can be very relaxing for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from sound or light. This can help to calm your baby down. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that can be used to store extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling feature for a lot of families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has side panels that can be removed with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt that make it suitable for travel. It has five height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. The MFM home testers praised it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard is also known as a Pack and Play is a popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.
Cozy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with the bedside crib. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section because you can easily pull baby out towards you for nappy or night feeds changes without needing to get up. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that let you observe your baby's growth.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, giving you the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier and then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specifications to make certain your bed is able to accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel, a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel that allows you to turn the crib to accommodate the baby's position.
If you're looking for something a smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is another stylish choice with oak legs and smart fabrics to match your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly and without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, however it is still compact and easy to attach to your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, however she did find that the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
When you're looking at travel cots and bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a mattress cover that is removable that is machine-washable. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spills, and leaky diapers. It's important to choose one that is able to be removed and partially dismantled so you can get into all the corners and crevices for an extensive cleaning and sanitising.
This is essential, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there are no gaps or areas where your baby could potentially fall down or get trapped.
It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it fits with your bed. This is especially important when you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed, allowing parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
When selecting a crib for your bedside take into consideration whether it has extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who are fussy.
Also, you should ensure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by making sure that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was used previously or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.
Multi-faceted
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's sometimes called, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs include a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can feel and see your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Others have additional features such as tilting, rocking, or converting into an older baby cot.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also heavier and bulkier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there's a useful toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also simple to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few additional features compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and a storage compartment.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him 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 wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It can be set on a divan, making it a great option for those with a small space. Plus, it has a convenient carry bag to take along when travelling. A perfect all-rounder.