Responsible For A Bedside Crib And Travel Cot Budget? 12 Top Notch Ways To Spend Your Money
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a cot with a bassinet style that fixes to the bed's side. They typically come with a side that can be lowered down for easy access and some come with an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.
MFM tester Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It folds down to a compact size, and comes with a handy travel bag.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are usually simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more transportable. 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 simple zips." This crib can also function as a travel cot and comes with a handy bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use an additional side panel that can be adjusted to allow you to easily access your baby without stepping 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 want to take the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with an integrated function that lets you to rock your baby. This can be very comforting for your baby and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs have a reclining position, which can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a doctor or health professional should be consulted prior to trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your child from light or noise, which is beneficial in keeping them quiet. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath 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 This is an attractive selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels, conversion kits and tilting tummies that make it versatile enough for travelling. It also has five different height adjustments to match your bed. It was praised by our MFM home testers for being simple to put together and comfortable. It is also compact and easy to move around. The Graco Play Yard (also known as a pack and play) is another popular choice, and was shortlisted in the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
A bedside crib allows you to monitor your little one from the comfort of your own bed. It's an excellent option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as you can easily lift your baby towards you to feed them at the night or change their nappies without getting out of the bed. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that allow you to view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, offering the option of sleeping together without the associated risks (check whether the crib you're considering meets the latest safety requirements however). Others allow you to keep the barrier lowered but raise it after you've lifted baby out, which is ideal for parents who are afflicted by an apprehension of their baby falling off the end of their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards for Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, however it does require some longer straps than some other models (check the specifications to be sure that your bed will be able to fit). The spacious design comes with an opening side panel, a patent-pending perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. In addition, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 to allow you to rotate the crib to suit the baby's position.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that complement your decor. It's also easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a good travel cot, folding down flat and slipping into a handy 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 easy to connect to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear about the zips.
Easy to clean
If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs, look for ones that have a mattress cover that is removable that can be machine-washed. This will keep it clean and free of dribbles, spills, and leaky diapers. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been cleared away. You'll also want to check that the sides of your crib are securely secured, ensuring that there aren't any gaps or areas that your child could slip down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your child and fits well with your bed. bedside cot 6 months plus is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, allowing parents easy access to their child at night to feed and comfort them while maintaining the security that separate sleeping surfaces offer.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should utilize this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed has a flat, firm mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will reduce the chance of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't fall into any folds or gaps in the bedding.
It's a good idea to purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN1130:2019. This is the most current standard, which introduces stricter requirements to ensure the safety of your sleep and provide effective solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib, as they're sometimes referred to) is attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your own sleeping area. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be removed to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and comfortable with your baby, while minimizing the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing 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 one has six height adjustments, as well as an excellent storage shelf. It's also a little bit heavier and bulkier than some of the more travel-friendly cribs we've tested and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are simple and there is a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean with the mattress cover that is machine washable and breathable fabric. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it an ideal choice for those with limited space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.