A Step-By-Step Guide To Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a type of cot that fixes to the bed's side. They usually come with a side that can be put down for easy access, and some have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib to be easy to put together and the instructions were clear, which made it a quick and easy build. It also folds down into the size of a small bag and comes with a convenient bag for travel.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are on the smaller side, so they fit neatly alongside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super straightforward to build, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around on the move. It comes with multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be lowered to allow you to easily reach your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their baby all night long but don't want to be at risk of co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be a relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should talk to your doctor or health professional before you attempt it.
Many bedside cribs come with a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming them down. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothing for your child.
Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go is a prime example. It has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it a versatile travel bed. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable, easy to assemble and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another favorite and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib lets you to monitor your little one in the peace of your bed. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your child towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without getting out of your bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that allow you to see your baby through.
Some cribs let you lower the barrier completely. This allows you to sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some allow you to lower the barrier but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have fears of their baby falling off the edge of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel as well as a patented perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase airflow. There's cot for bedside integrated setting for reflux, and an swivel that can be 360 degrees to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also incredibly easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and popping into a convenient bag.
The Next2me Magic, shortlisted for Best Cot, Crib, or Moses Basket in the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, has a larger capacity, but it is small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina found it easy to put together, however she did feel the zips could have been better described on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for My Web Page that come with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles spills, and leaky diapers. You should also select one that is easily disassembled so you can clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there are no gaps or spaces where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
You'll also need to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it fits with your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These are designed to attach securely to the side of the bed for parents which allows parents to easily access their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but be aware that you should only use this feature with care as it could be risky if your child gets out of the crib.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly 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 also a good idea to buy a new mattress for your cot, crib or travel bed instead of using one that was passed down from someone else or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used tend to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new must be compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This is the latest standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Multi-faceted
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're often referred to) can be attached to your bed to allow you to easily reach your baby at night, without needing to get out of your bed to sleep. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing a bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into an oversized travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like 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 and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings and a useful shelf for storage. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our more travel-friendly cribs and comes in an attractive bag that keeps it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a useful toolkit to aid you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more features than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline, rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last a longer period of time before my son grows out". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those who have little space. It also comes with a handy bag to take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.