Then You've Found Your Bedside Crib And Travel Cot ... Now What?

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some come with an incline option that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the instructions were very clear. It was a simple build. It folds up into the smallest size, and comes with a convenient travel bag.

Easy to assemble

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed close to your bed. They also tend to be lighter, which makes 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." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're on the move. It comes with multiple mesh windows to allow for airflow, and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have an additional side panel that can be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your own bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have built-in functions that allow you to rock your baby. This can be extremely soothing for your baby, and help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which is useful for babies suffering from reflux or colic. This position should only be used under supervision and you should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to protect your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space which is ideal for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.

Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often a big selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a fantastic example. It has removable side panels and 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. Our MFM home testers loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as the pack and play) is another favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and cozy

You can monitor your child from the peace of your bed by using the bedside crib. It's a great option for moms who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies with no need to get out of your bed. The most comfortable cribs have breathable mesh sides which you can see your baby through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep with no risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier but then lift it back up after you lift baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to make sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel and a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and the ability to swivel 360 degrees, allowing you to move the crib to suit the preferred position of your baby.

If you're looking for something a little smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a stylish option with oak legs and clever fabrics to match your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, which folds flat and slipping into a handy 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 assemble too, although she did feel the zips could have been more clearly explained on the instruction manual.

Easy to clean

When you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs make sure they come with a mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spit-up, and leaky diapers. You should also select an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and disinfect all the nooks.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached so that your baby cannot fall off or be trapped.

It is also important to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping surfaces provide.

Another thing to consider when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with additional features you might find useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is ideal for babies who are a bit fussy.

It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably 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 also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your travel cot or crib instead of using one that was given to you by another person or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the most recent standard, which introduces more stringent requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.

Multi-faceted

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) can be attached to your bed to allow you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most will have a side panel that can be moved down so you can be able to see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel down all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping with your baby, but minimises the risks of bed-sharing. Some cribs will also convert into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk 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 just about its sleek, modern design. This model comes with six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our more travel-friendly cribs however it comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

The instructions are simple and there's a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It is also easy to clean using the possibility of washing it in the machine and breathable fabric. It comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, including an anti-reflux angle, a rocking feature, and an storage compartment.

bedside travel cot  says that this crib is great because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night to provide a relaxed feeding, and it's larger than other Moses Baskets, which means it will last for a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also appreciates how easy it is to clean and how it is sturdy and well-made. It can be positioned on divans, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag that you can carry to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.