How To Save Money On Bedside Crib And Travel Cot
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs look like the bassinet that is attached to the side of a bed. Some have a side that can be raised for easy access, while others have an incline that is ideal for babies with reflux.
MFM tester Georgina said that the crib was easy to build and the directions were clear. It was a quick construction. It folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient travel bag.
Easy to assemble
They are small and simple to set up, meaning they can be set near your bed. They are also lighter, making them more transportable. Georgina, one of our MFM home test participants, praised the Maxi-Cosi for being "super straightforward to put together, with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can be used as a portable travel crib and comes with a convenient bag. It includes multiple mesh openings to allow ventilation and its height-adjustable allows it to fit on any mattress.
Some cribs for bedside use a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can be able to easily reach your baby without having to get out of the bed. This is a great choice for breastfeeding mothers or those who wish to be with their baby all night long but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher risk of SIDS).
Most models have built-in rocking functions. This can be very comforting for your baby and help them fall asleep. Some cribs can recline in a position that can be useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision. A doctor or health professional should be consulted before trying this position.
Most cribs with a bedside come with a canopy to shield your baby from light and noise, which can be helpful in keeping them peaceful. Some cribs come with an area for storage underneath that is perfect for storing additional blankets, diapers, and clothes for your child.
Some cribs for bedside use can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds and is an important selling feature for families. MFM's 2021 Mother and Baby Awards winner The Joie Roomie Go, for example, has removable side panels with conversion kits, as well as a tummy tilt, making it suitable for travel. It has five different height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised the Joie Roomie Go for being comfortable and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard, also known as a Play and Pack Play is a different popular option. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cosy and cozy
You can keep an eye on your child from the peace of your bed by using a bedside crib. It's an excellent option for moms who are recovering from a C-section since you can easily lift your baby towards you to feed their needs at the night or change their nappies without having to get out of your bed. The most cozy cribs come with mesh sides that let you view your baby's face through.
Some cribs lower the barrier completely, allowing the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check that your chosen model is compliant with the latest safety standards however). Certain cribs let you lower the barrier, but raise it again after you have lifted baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child falling off their mattress.
The Luah was awarded the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards Best Crib, Cot, or Moses Basket - is designed to attach to bedsteads as well as divan beds, but it does require a few more straps than some other models (check the specifications to make sure your bed can accommodate). The large design has an opening side panel and a perforated bottom with a patented design that provides air cushioning to improve air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to rotate the crib in accordance with the position your baby prefers.
If you are looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that complement your decor. It's also easy to assemble. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together in a matter of minutes without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a fantastic 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 but is still small and simple to attach to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to set up, though she felt the instructions could have been more clear regarding the zips.
Easy to clean
Find large bedside crib with removable mattress covers that can be washed with the machine while 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 one that is easily removed and partially dismantled to allow you access to every nook and cranny to conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitising.
This is important, as it's the best way to make sure that all germs and dirt have been removed. It is also important to ensure that the crib's sides are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or areas that your child could fall down or get trapped.
You'll also need to make sure that the crib is easy to clean and it is a good fit for your bed. This is especially crucial if you're using a bedside crib that sleeps with your child. These cribs are designed to be attached securely to the parent's side, giving parents easy access to their child during the night to feed and comfort their baby while still ensuring the security that separate sleeping areas provide.
When selecting a crib for your bedside it is important to consider whether it comes with extra features that may be beneficial to you. Some cribs 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 is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits snugly into the frame. This will lower the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea buy a new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than using one that was handed down or bought second-hand. Used mattresses are more prone to lose their shape over time and increase the risk of SIDS. All cribs that are new should be compliant with BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
A bedside crib (or co-sleeping crib as they're sometimes known) is attached to your bed, allowing you to reach your baby easily at night, without needing to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs during the daytime. The majority of cribs have a side panel which can be adjusted so that you can feel your baby's hand and see the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel down at night. This allows you to be close and convenient with your baby, while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can be converted into a travel cot or include additional features such as tilting, rocking (use with caution, make sure to talk to your GP about this) or changing into a baby cot for older children or playpen.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for a variety of reasons, not only because of its sleek, modern design. The crib comes with six height settings and a handy shelf for storage. It's also a bit larger and heavier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel however it comes with a handy bag to keep it clean and dust-free when it's stored.
The instructions are easy to follow and there's a handy toolkit included to assist you. It's also easy to clean, with a machine-washable mattress cover and breathable fabrics. It also comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle as well as a rocking feature and a storage compartment.
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 larger than most Moses Baskets, so it will last for a longer time before my son gets older". She also likes how easy it is to clean and that it feels solid and well-made. It's designed to fit on a divan bed making it an ideal option for those with small space. It also comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.