Now That You've Purchased Bedside Crib And Travel Cot ... Now What?

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that can be attached to the side of your bed. Some have sides that can be lowered for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for reflux babies.

MFM test subject Georgina said that this crib was easy to build, and the instructions were easy to follow. It was a fast construction. It also folds down into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy bag for transport.

Easy to put together

They are small and easy to set up, so they can be placed near your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina, who was one of 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 also be used as a travel cot, and comes with a convenient bag for when you're traveling. It has multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it can be adapted to any mattress.

Some bedside cribs have the option of a side panel that could be raised, allowing an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great solution for mothers who are breastfeeding or parents who want to be close to their child all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

The majority of models have a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a very relaxing experience for your baby, and can help them fall asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position is best used under supervision. You should consult your doctor or health professional before attempting it.

A lot of bedside cribs have a canopy over them to shield your baby from light and sound, which can be helpful in keeping them calm. Some cribs have an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing extra blankets, diapers and clothes for your child.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling factor for families with children. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards is a great example. It comes with removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It also has 5 different height adjustments to match your bed and was highly praised by our MFM home testers for its ease of assemble, comfortable and compact. The Graco Play Yard Also known as a Pack and Play, is another popular choice. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cozy and comfortable

A bedside crib enables you to monitor your little one from the comfortable bed. It's a great option for a new mum recovering from a c-section, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you to feed them or make nappy changes without needing to get up. The most comfortable cribs have mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.

Some cribs allow you to lower the barrier completely. This lets you sleep with your baby without any risk. (Make sure that the crib you choose meets the current safety requirements). Some cribs let you keep the barrier lowered but then raise it after you've lifted baby off, which is better for parents who have fears of their child falling off the edge of their mattress.

The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards Best Cot, or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans, but requires longer straps (check your specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning to increase air flow. Additionally, it has an integrated reflux setting and a 360 swivel that allows you to turn the crib to suit the baby's position.

If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs that come with a range of fabrics that fit in with your decor. It's also simple to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was in a position to put it together quickly and without requiring any instructions. It's also a good 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 on the larger side but is still quite compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.

Easy to clean

Find cribs with removable mattress covers that can be washed in the machine when looking at cribs for bed or travel cots. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, sick babies and spills. It's also a good idea to choose a product that is easily removed and partially dismantled so you can get into every nook and cranny to conduct an efficient cleaning and sanitising session.

This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make  bedside crib to cot  that the sides of the crib are securely secured so that your baby cannot fall down or get trapped.

You'll also want to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib to facilitate co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, allowing parents to easily access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the safety that separate sleeping surfaces offer.

When selecting a crib for your bed take into consideration whether it has additional features that could be beneficial to you. For example, some have the capability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt, but keep in mind that you should use this feature with care as it could be dangerous if your child is thrown out.

You'll also want to make sure that your crib or travel cot is a flat and firm mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head aren't slipping into gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot rather than using one that was handed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that are used are more likely to lose their shape over time, increasing the risk for SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to is attached to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily during the night without having to leave your sleeping area. They can also be used as a standalone crib during the daytime. Most have a side panel which can be lowered to allow you to feel your baby's hand and see him. Some cribs let you keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the intimacy 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 include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, remember to speak to your GP about this) or changing into an older baby cot or playpen.

The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not just due to its sleek Scandi design. This crib has six height settings as well as an attractive shelf to store things on. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than many of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when stored.

It's easy to set up, with clear instructions and helpful tools to guide you. It's also easy to clean, with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabric. It has a few more features than other bedside cribs we've tried, such as an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function, and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is fantastic because it is "easy to reach the baby in the middle the night for fuss free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also likes the ease of clean and feels sturdy and well made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed, which makes it an ideal option for those who have small space. It also comes with a handy bag that you can carry with you on your travels. A perfect all-rounder.