Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is connected to the side of a bed. Some have an end that can be lowered for easy access, and others have an incline that is perfect for reflux babies.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the instructions were extremely simple. It was a quick build. It also folds down to a compact size and comes with a handy bag for travel.
Easy to put together
Bedside cribs are typically simple to set up and are usually on the smaller side, so they are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They are also lighter, making them more portable. simply click the up coming document of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and simple zips." The crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag for when you're moving. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs have an additional side panel that can be raised, allowing easy access to your baby without having to step out of your bed. This is an excellent option for mothers who are breastfeeding, or those who want to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't wish to risk co-sleeping.
The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a soothing experience for your baby, and can help them to fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial in the case of reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should consult a doctor or health visitor before you attempt it.
A lot of cribs with a bedside have a canopy that protects your baby from noise and light. This can help in calming the baby. Some have a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal to store blankets, nappies and clothes for your baby.
A lot of bedside cribs can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother&Baby Awards winner, the Joie Roomie Go, for example, 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 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 popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and comfy
A bedside crib enables you to keep an eye on your baby from the comfortable bed. It's a great choice 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 having to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the convenience of co-sleeping without the associated risks (check that your chosen model is in compliance with the most recent safety standards though). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you have lifted baby out. This is ideal for parents concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah - which won the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot or Moses Basket - is designed to be attached to bedsteads and divan beds, but does require straps that are longer than other models (check the specs to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a roomy design with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion that helps increase the flow of air. Plus, there's an integrated setting for reflux and an swivel 360 so you can rotate the crib to accommodate your baby's position.
If you're looking for something smaller in size than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and smart fabrics to match your decor. It is also very easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was capable of putting it together quickly, without having to look up any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down 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 somewhat larger, however it is still small and easy to put onto your bed. Georgina found it straightforward to put together, though she was not convinced that the zips could have been better explained on the instruction sheet.
Easy to clean
Look for bedside cots for newborns that come with mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will allow you to keep it free of leaky nappies, baby sick and drips. You should also choose an item that can be easily disassembled so you can clean and disinfect every nook and cranny.
This is crucial, since it's the best way to be sure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. Check that the sides of the crib are secure to ensure that your baby doesn't fall off or be trapped.
You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly crucial if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. They are designed to be attached 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 still ensuring separate sleeping areas.
Another thing to think about when choosing a crib to sleep on is if it comes with extra features you might consider useful. For instance, some cribs have the ability to rock (useful for fussy sleepers) or tilt - but keep in mind that you should use this feature with care because it could be dangerous if your child gets out of the crib.
You'll want to make sure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that is snugly fitted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase a new mattress for your travel cot or crib, rather than using one that has been given to you by someone else or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more likely to lose their shape with time, increasing the risk of SIDS. All new cribs should meet BS EN 1130:2019, the most recent standard that introduces more stringent requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping bed as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can access your baby easily at night without leaving your bed. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs come with a side panel that can be removed to let you see your baby and touch him. Some cribs let you keep the panel in place all night, which gives you the closeness and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn and reduces the dangers of bed sharing. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or have extra features like rocking, tilting (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or even turning into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek and modern Scandi design. This one has six height adjustments and a handy storage shelf. It's also a bit heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel and comes in a handy bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there is a handy toolkit that can be used to help you. It's also easy to clean with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few amenities than other cribs we've used including an anti-reflux incline as well as a rocking function, and a storage pocket.
Jasmin says it's an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach your baby during the night to feed him without fuss and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". She also likes that it's easy to clean and feels durable and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan, which makes it an ideal choice for those with small space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can take with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.