What's Holding Back This Bedside Crib And Travel Cot Industry?

Bedside Crib and Travel Cot

Bedside cribs are a bassinet-style cot that is attached to the side of your bed. They often have a single side that can be lowered down for easy access and some come with an incline that's ideal for babies who have reflux.

MFM test subject Georgina found this crib very easy to build and the instructions were clear, making it a quick and easy build.  baby bedside crib  folds into an extremely compact size and comes with a handy travel bag.

Easy to assemble

Bedside cribs are generally easy to set up, and are usually on the smaller side to are able to be placed neatly beside your bed. They also tend to be lighter, making them more portable. Georgina who was one of MFM's home testers, said that the Maxi-Cosi Lora was "super easy to assemble with clear instructions, and easy zips." The crib can be used as a portable travel cot and comes with a handy bag. It has multiple mesh openings for ventilation, and its adjustable height allows it to fit on any mattress.

Some cribs with a bedside have the option of a side panel that could be lowered, giving you an easy access to your baby without the need to get out of your bed. This is a great option for mothers who are breastfeeding or those who wish to be close to their baby throughout the night but don't want to risk co-sleeping (which is associated to a higher 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 help them fall asleep. Some cribs have a recline position that can be helpful in the case of reflux or colic. They should only be used under supervision. A GP or health visitor is recommended prior to attempting this position.

Many bedside cribs come with a canopy that protects your baby from sound or light. This can help calm the baby. Some come with a storage compartment underneath, which is great to store blankets, nappies, and other items for your baby.

Many cribs for bedside use can be converted into toddler beds or standalone cots. This is a key selling feature for a lot of families. The Joie Roomie, winner of the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is a great example. It has removable side panels as well as a conversion kit and a tummy tilt that makes it travel-friendly. It comes with five different height adjustments that can be matched to your bed. Our MFM home testers 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 a different popular choice. It was nominated for the 2022 Mother&Baby Awards.

Cosy and comfy

A bedside crib enables you to monitor your baby in the peace of your bed. It's a great option for mothers who are recovering from a C section as it is easy to lift your infant towards you to feed their needs at night or change their nappies without having to get out of bed. The most comfortable cribs come with mesh sides that which you can see your baby through.

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

The Luah was awarded the Mother&Baby Awards 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). It's a spacious design that has an opening side panel and a unique perforated base which creates an air cushion that helps increase air flow. There's also an integrated reflux setting as well as a 360-degree swivel to allow you to move the crib to suit the position your baby prefers.

If you're looking for something smaller Tutti Bambini CoZee has oak legs with a variety of fabric options that match your decor. It's also extremely easy to assemble as Georgina who took part in our MFM tests, put it together speedily and didn't have to read the instructions. It's also a good travel cot that folds flat and popping into a bag for easy storage.

The Next2me Magic, which was shortlisted for the Best Cot, Crib or Moses Basket at the 2021 Mother&Baby Awards, is also somewhat larger, but is still relatively compact and easy to attach into 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

If you're looking at travel cots or bedside cribs be sure to look for models that have a removable mattress cover which can be washed in the machine. That will help you keep it clean from spills, nappies, infant sick and drips. It's important to choose a product that is easily disassembled and partially dismantled, so that you can access all the corners and crevices for a thorough cleaning and sanitising.

This is crucial, as it will ensure that all germs and dirt have been removed. Also, you should ensure that the sides of your crib are securely attached, so there aren't any gaps or spaces that your child could slide down or become trapped.

Aside from being easy to clean, you'll want a crib for your bed that is comfortable for your baby and fits well with your own bed. This is particularly important if you are using a bedside crib for co-sleeping. 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 and comfort their baby while maintaining the safety of separate sleeping areas.

When you are choosing a crib to put at your bedroom it is important to consider whether it has additional features that may be beneficial to you. For example, some have the ability to rock (useful for babies who are fussy) or tilt - although be aware that you should only make use of this feature with caution, as it can be risky if your child is thrown out.

Also, you should make sure that your crib or travel cot has a sturdy and flat mattress that is able to fit snugly into the frame. This will decrease the chance of SIDS by making sure that your baby's head and feet don't slide down into any gaps or folds in the bedding.

It's a good idea purchase a brand new mattress for your crib or travel cot, rather than use one that was passed down or purchased second-hand. Mattresses that have been used are more susceptible to losing their shape with time, increasing the risk for 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 often referred to) is attached to your bed, allowing you to easily reach your baby at night without having to leave your bed to sleep. They can also be used as standalone cribs in the daytime. Most come with a side panel that can be lowered to let you see your baby and touch the baby. Some cribs allow you to keep the side panel in place at night. This lets you be close and convenient with your baby while minimising the risk of sharing the bed. Some cribs can also be transformed into a travel cot. Some cribs have additional features like tilting, rocking, or even converting into an older crib for babies.

The SnuzPod 4 is a consistently popular crib and it's not just about its sleek Scandi aesthetic. It comes with six height adjustments and a useful storage shelf. It's also a little heavier and bulkier than some of our cribs that are more suitable for travel, but it comes in a convenient 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 fabrics. It comes with a few more extras than some of the other cribs we've used with, like an anti-reflux incline, a rocking function and a storage pocket.

Jasmin says that this is an excellent crib due to its "easy to reach baby during the night to feed without fuss and it's larger than many Moses baskets, which means it will last longer until my son is out of it". It's also easy to clean and feels solid and well-made. It can be placed on a divan, which makes it a great option for those who have small space. Additionally, it comes with a handy carry bag to take with you when you're travelling. A perfect all-rounder.