How To Save Money On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look similar to the bassinet that is connected to the side of the bed. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, and others have an inclined design that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to assemble and the directions were very easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set-up, so they can be placed next to your bed. They are also lighter, making them more mobile. Georgina who was one of the MFM's home testers said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable crib, and it comes with a convenient bag. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability, and the adjustable height ensures it can be adapted to any mattress.
Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be adjusted to lower, allowing you an easy access to your baby without having to get out of your own bed. This is a great solution for breastfeeding mothers, or those who want to be with their baby throughout the night, but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated with an increased risk of SIDS).
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be very soothing for your baby, and can help them sleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision, and a health professional or a GP should be consulted before trying this position.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy to shield your baby from noise and light. This can help to calm them down. Some cribs have an under-bed storage space that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be transformed into standalone cots, or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. bedside co sleeper cot has removable side panels and a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt, making it travel-friendly. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed. Our MFM home testers loved it for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is a different favorite, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfortable
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your child in the comfortable bed. It's a great choice for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. And the cosiest cribs also have breathable mesh sides you can view your baby through.
Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This allows you to co-sleep without the risks. (Make sure that the model chosen meets the current safety requirements). Some allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the side of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to clip on to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specs to make sure that your bed can accommodate). The spacious design features an opening side panel, and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning that increases air flow. Plus, there's an integrated reflux setting and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to accommodate the position of your baby.
If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabric options that match your decor. It's also incredibly simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together in a matter of minutes without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into bags.
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 straightforward to put together, though she did find that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs with mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, infant sick and dribbles. It's an excellent idea to select a model that can be disassembled and partially dismantled, so that you can access all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.
This is vital, as it's the best way to make sure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely connected, ensuring there aren't any gaps or areas where your baby could potentially slip down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a bedside crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and is compatible with your bed. This is especially important in the case of a bedside crib for co-sleeping. They are designed to fit securely to the side of the bed for parents and allow parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring separate sleeping surfaces.
When choosing a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs can tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.
It is important to make sure that your crib or travel bed has a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the risk of SIDS because your baby's feet and head won't get caught in folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to losing their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) attaches to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night without having to get out of your own sleeping area. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. They usually come with a side panel that can be adjusted to let you see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel closed all night, which gives you the comfort and intimacy of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed-sharing. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features, such as tilting, rocking or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. The crib comes with six height settings as well as a useful shelf to store things on. It's also bulkier and heavier than some of the more comfortable cribs that we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
It's simple to put together, with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It is also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more extras than some of the other cribs we've used, such as an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says that this crib is great because it's "easy to reach the baby in the middle of the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, making it a great option for those with small space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.