9 Signs That You're An Expert Bedside Crib And Travel Cot Expert

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs resemble the bassinet that is attached to the sides of the bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy reach and some even have an incline option that is ideal for babies with reflux.

MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the instructions were very simple. It was a fast construction. It also folds down into a compact size 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 to fit neatly alongside your bed. They also tend to be 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 assemble with clear instructions and simple zips." This crib can be used as a travel crib and comes with a handy bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside feature an additional side panel that can be removed to let you easily access your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great option for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be close to their child throughout the night but do not want to risk co-sleeping (which is linked to an increased risk of SIDS).

Most models come with a built-in function that allows you to rock your baby. This can be a very comforting experience for your baby and help them to sleep. Some cribs feature a reclining position that can be beneficial if your child has reflux or colic. This position should only be used with supervision. You should talk to an expert in health or a doctor before you attempt it.

Many bedside cribs come with an umbrella to protect your baby from noise or light. This can help in calming your baby down. Some come with a storage compartment beneath, which is ideal for stashing extra blankets, nappies and clothing for your baby.

Many bedside cribs are convertible into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a major selling point for many families. MFM's 2021 Mother and 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 that make it a versatile travel bed. It has five height adjustments that can be set to your bed.  bedside crib co sleeper  loved the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to put together. It is also compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play, is another popular option. It was a finalist for the 2022 Mother&Baby Award.

Cosy and comfortable

You can watch your child from the comfort of your bed with a bedside crib. It's an ideal option for a mom who is recovering from a csection, since you can easily carry your baby out towards you for night feeds or nappy changes without needing to get out of bed. The cosiest cribs have mesh sides that let you 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 crib you choose meets the current safety standards). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but lift it back up after you take the baby out. This is better for parents concerned about their child rolling off 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 divans and bedsteads but requires longer straps (check your specifications to be sure your bed can accommodate). It's a large model with an opening side panel as well as an exclusive perforated base that creates an air cushion to increase air flow. In addition, there's an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360 swivel to allow you to rotate the crib to fit the position of your baby.

If you are seeking something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee comes with oak legs with a variety of fabric options that fit in with your decor. It's also super-easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests was able to put it together quickly and didn't need to read the instructions. It is also a great travel cot. It folds flat and easily fits into a bag.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also slightly larger than the average, but is still relatively compact and easy to fit onto your bed. Georgina found it easy to assemble too, although she was not convinced that the zips could have been more clearly described on the instruction sheet.

Easy to clean

When 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 allow you to keep it clean from spills, nappies, baby sick and dribbles. It's also a good idea to choose one that is able to be disassembled and dismantled in parts, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies for a thorough cleaning and sanitising session.

This is vital, since it will ensure that all dirt and germs have been cleared away. Make sure that the sides of the crib are securely attached to ensure that your baby won't fall down or get trapped.

It is also important to ensure that the crib is easy to clean and that it's a good fit with your bed. This is particularly important if you're using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. These cribs are designed to be tethered securely to the parent's side, giving parents to have easy access to their infant during the night to feed and comfort them, while ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.

Another thing to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is if it comes with additional features that you may consider useful. Some cribs tilt or rock, which is great for babies who tend to be fussy.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is snugly inserted into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS because your baby's head and feet won't get caught in gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea to purchase a new mattress for the crib or travel cot rather than relying on one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape with time which increases the risk of SIDS. All cribs new to market have to meet BS EN1130 for 2019. This is the latest standard that introduces stricter requirements to ensure safe and effective sleep solutions.

Versatile

A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes referred to) is attached to your bed in order for you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your own sleeping area. They can be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel that can be adjusted to lower, so that you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs let you keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while taking care to minimize the risks of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be converted into an oversized travel cot. Other cribs come with additional features like tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently well-loved crib and it's not just about its sleek, modern design. This 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 a convenient bag to keep it free of dust and clean when it's stored.

It's easy to set up with clear instructions and an easy-to-use toolkit to assist you. It's also easy to clean with an easy-to-clean mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It has a few more features than other cribs for bed we've tested including an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this crib is wonderful because it's "easy to reach the baby during the night for a peaceful feeding and larger than most Moses Baskets, which means it will last a longer period of time before my son is old enough to use it". She also appreciates the ease of clean and that it is sturdy and well-made. It's also designed to fit on a divan bed which makes it a great option for those who have limited space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're traveling. A perfect all-rounder.