The Best Way To Explain Bedside Crib And Travel Cot To Your Boss
Bedside Crib and Travel Cot
Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that fixes to the bed's side. Some have an end that can be raised for easy access, while others come with an inclined design that is perfect for babies with reflux.
MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very simple to assemble and the instructions were clear, which made it an easy and quick build. It also folds down to an extremely compact size and comes with a convenient bag for traveling.
Easy to assemble
Bedside cribs are typically easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side so they can be easily tucked away beside your bed. They are also lighter, which makes them more mobile. Georgina one of our MFM home testers, praised the Maxi-Cosi Lora for being "super easy to put together with clear instructions and easy zips." This crib can also be used as a travel cot and comes with a convenient bag to carry it around moving. It comes with multiple mesh windows for breathability and the adjustable height makes it can fit on any mattress.
Some bedside cribs feature the option of a side panel that can be removed to let you easily access your baby without stepping out of bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who want to stay close to their baby at night, but don't wish to take on the risk of co-sleeping.
Many models come with a built-in rocking function. This can be very soothing for your baby, and aids in falling asleep. Some cribs offer a recline position, which is useful if your baby has reflux or colic. These should only be used under supervision, and a GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.
Many cribs for bed come with an umbrella to protect your baby from sound or light. This can help calm your baby down. Some cribs come with a storage area underneath which is ideal for storing additional blankets, diapers, and other clothes for your child.
Some cribs that are bedside can be converted into standalone cots or toddler beds, and this is often an important selling factor for families. The Joie Roomie is the winner of the 2021 Mother and Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy-tilt that makes it a great travel companion. It has five height adjustments that can be adjusted to your bed. Our MFM home testers praised it for its comfort and easy to set up and compact. The Graco Play Yard (also called as a pack and play) is another popular choice and was shortlisted for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.
Cozy and comfortable
You can watch your child from the in the comfort of your bed using a bedside crib. It's a great option for new mums recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed them at night or change their nappies without getting 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, offering the comfort of sleeping with your partner without the risk (check whether the crib you're considering is compliant with the latest safety standards though). Some cribs let you lower the barrier but then pop it up again after you take baby out. This is better for parents who are concerned about their child's ability to roll off their mattress.
The Luah is the winner of the Mother&Baby Awards for the Best Cot or Moses Basket in 2021, is designed to attach to bedsteads and divans however, it requires a longer strap (check your specs to make sure your bed can be accommodated). The large design has an opening side panel, and a patented perforated bottom that creates air cushioning that increases air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting and a 360-degree swivel to allow you to turn the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.
If you're looking for something smaller than the Tutti Bambini COZee is a different stylish option, with oak legs and stylish fabrics that will match your decor. It is also very easy to put together. Georgina who took part in the MFM test was able to put it together quickly, without needing to consult any instructions. It's also a great travel cot, folding down flat before slipping into a convenient 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 however it is still compact and easy to fit to your bed. Georgina also found it easy to put together, though she felt the instructions could have been clearer about the zips.
Easy to clean
Look for cribs that come with removable mattress covers which can be washed in the machine when you are looking at bedside cribs or travel cots. This will keep it clean and free of spills, spills, and leaky diapers. It is also recommended to choose a model that is easily disassembled to allow you to clean and sanitise all the nooks.
This is vital, as it's the best way to ensure that all germs and dirt have been eliminated. It is also important to ensure that the sides of the crib are securely secured, ensuring that there are no gaps or spaces in which your child could slide down or become trapped.
Aside from being easy to clean, you'll also want an infant crib that is a comfortable place for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is especially crucial when you're using a co-sleeping bedside crib. They are designed to be attached securely to the side of the parent's bed which allows parents to easily reach their baby throughout the night to feed or comfort their child while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a crib for your bed is whether it has any extra features you might find useful. For instance, some cribs come with the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - but remember that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be dangerous if your baby gets out of the crib.
It is important to ensure that your crib or travel bed is made of a firm, flat mattress that fits comfortably into the frame. This will reduce the risk of SIDS by ensuring that your baby's feet and head do not slide into gaps or folds in the bedding.
It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for the crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was used previously or bought second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to lose their shape over time which increases the risk of SIDS. All new cribs must meet BS EN 1130:2019, the latest standard that imposes stricter requirements for safe and effective sleep solutions.
Versatile
The bedside crib, or co-sleeping mattress as it's often referred to, attaches to the bed so that you can reach your baby easily at night without having to leave your bed. They can also be used as a separate crib during the daytime. The majority of cribs feature a side panel which can be lowered, so you can see and touch your baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the panel in place throughout the night, giving you the intimacy and convenience of sleeping in a bed with your newborn however it reduces the risk of bed sharing. Some cribs can be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features, such as rocking, tilting, or even converting into an older crib for babies.
The SnuzPod 4 crib is popular for many reasons, not only because of its sleek design in Scandi. This model comes with six height adjustments and an excellent storage shelf. It's also bulkier and heavier than the other portable cribs we've tried and comes with a convenient bag to keep it clean and free of dust in storage.
The instructions are clear 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 comes with a few extras compared to other cribs, such as an anti-reflux angle and a rocking feature and an storage compartment.
Jasmin says this is a great crib because it's "easy to reach baby in the middle of the night for fuss-free feeding and is larger than the majority of Moses baskets, so it will last longer before my son outgrows it". She also loves that it's easy to wipe down and feels durable and well-made. bedside cots for newborns can be positioned on a divan, making it a great option for those with a little space. It is also equipped with a convenient bag to take to your next trip. A perfect all-rounder.