9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Travel Bedside Crib
Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
Having a machine-washable mattress cover is important for those times when your baby has a dirty accident or you have to freshen up the crib after a trip. This cover does exactly that and comes with a simple travel bag.
It comes with an innovative tilt feature that aids in easing reflux. It is compatible with divan beds and frame-like bed frames. It also features the ability to breathe through the mesh sides and aid in regulating your baby's temperature during sleep.
Safety
A bedside crib is an ideal solution for new parents. You can rest close to your baby without worrying about the risk of suffocation. Bedside cribs allow you to comfort them in the night and have them easily reach them for feeding or comforting, without needing to get out of bed, which is particularly useful after the birth of a c-section.
They're also a great choice for older babies who aren't big enough to fit in the bed of a toddler. It's essential that your crib meets the most recent safety standards. Look for a model which complies with the BS EN1130:2019. This requires a barrier of 120mm between the crib mattress and yours, to stop your child from rolling on your bed.
You could also look for a crib that can accommodate the 'feet-to foot position, which is where you place your baby in the crib with their feet on the foot of the bed. This allows them to remain more comfortable and reduces the chance of them becoming trapped under the covers. Some cribs let you tilt your crib, which can be beneficial for babies with digestive issues such as colic or reflux. It is recommended to use the crib tilting feature with caution. It could increase your baby's risk of falling out.
Before packing away a crib, it should be thoroughly cleaned. This includes cleaning the mattress, bedding, and covers made of fabric. Also, it is important to clean any waterproof areas. This is essential to prevent introducing bacteria or mould in your baby's sleeping environment. Remember to wash and wipe down any removable parts. You should also check the crib for signs of being worn out and clean any fabrics that have come in contact with urine and faeces. They could become infected and cause infection. This should be done each time you use the crib, and before packing it away to store it away.
Sleeping in
A bedside crib with wheels crib allows you to keep your child close while you rest. It lets you sleep in a safe manner and can be used as a stand-alone crib or travel crib for overnight stays at grandparents' or on holiday. You can choose from a variety of cribs to fit your bed's height, with some designed for divan beds and others that attach to the sides of your bed like a side-car.
A great bedside crib is one that is easy to clean. It should have a mattress that can be removed and be machine washable. You should also consider an air-conditioned mattress that keeps your baby cool and comfortable. Some of the top cribs will also offer reflux inclines for babies who suffer from acid reflux.
Always follow the Safe Sleep guidance provided by the Lullaby Trust and ensure your baby's bedding is safe and there aren't any gaps between the adult mattress and the crib. You could also choose a side-car baby crib like the Chicco Next2Me. It is easy to assemble and includes the option of a travel bag. This is a popular choice among MFM users who found it to be the most portable and lightweight of the bedside co sleeper cribs we evaluated.
While it is completely safe to cosleep in a crib, you should be aware that this may not be the most comfortable option for long periods of time and could lead to back discomfort. These cribs should only be used for up to six months. After that, you'll need change to a cot or moses basket.
You should be cautious about a crib with an opening that opens all up to your mattress. This could cause your child to roll out of the crib and onto the mattress. Most new bedside co sleeper cot cribs have an upper half-height bar that is lower then your mattress to stop this. One of our MFM test participants found that the feature was not as simple to use as she expected however, it was useful for her family.
Buying a crib that is second-hand
The purchase of second-hand baby items is a common strategy to save money for parents who are new. Consignment shops as well as flea markets and thrift stores are great places to purchase baby items at a fraction the cost of retail.
There are a few baby products that should never be purchased secondhand, like travel cribs. It is difficult to determine whether a crib has been in an accident, but some may have. This could make it unsafe. In addition the mattress of a used crib may be covered in stains or mold, as well as hidden indentations or depressions that could pose suffocation hazards for babies.
If you are shopping for a used crib that is portable, choose one that has mesh side panels as well as a firm mattress. It should also have no decorations or straps that could cause a strangulation or choking hazard. It should also be easy to clean, and if you can include a user's manual printed on paper. If the manual isn't available, you might locate a copy on the internet.
The Bump is proud to be a partner with Consumer ReportsOpens in new window, the reliable source for in-depth product reviews and information. Consumer Reports experts evaluate thousands products each year, which means the reviews and ratings you see here are accurate.
When you're looking for a second-hand crib, make sure that it meets federal safety standards. Compare it to the crib safety guidelines available on the CPSC website. You can also check the website for recalls of a specific crib.
While some parents sell their cribs for travel when their child moves out of them, this is not a good idea. A used crib mattress can develop suffocation hazards as time passes, and is often filled with bacteria. It is important to check the mattress for cleanliness by pressing hard into it with your hand. If it leaves an indentation it's soft and should not be used.
If you purchase a second-hand crib for your baby then let them sleep in it for a few days prior to your trip. Try putting it in your home and letting them sleep in it during the day for a few days prior to when you leave for your trip. This will allow them to adjust to the new sleeping space and reduce their stress on your travels.
Getting started
A travel bedside crib, also known as a portable crib or play yard offers a safe and secure place for your baby to sleep during your travels. Some parents bring their crib with them when they go to vacation, while others make use of it at home or when visiting family and friends. A travel crib will make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing for you and your child.
Find a portable cot that is easy-to-assemble and to fold. Check the instructions before you purchase to ensure that the procedure is easy and that you're comfortable using it. Pick a crib that has an option to wash it with a machine to save time and money. Cleaning your travel crib will keep it looking fresh and a lot of consignment shops won't accept a dirty portable crib.
Make sure you fold and set up the crib before your trip. This will get your baby used to it, which will make the transition to a hotel room feel less intimidating. You can even throw an adorable or favorite blanket inside to help familiarize your baby with the surroundings and smell.
It's important to keep your baby close, whether they're asleep or awake. You can rock or hold them to help them fall asleep and wake up. Alternately, you can put them in the crib with their blanket of choice and wrap them in a swaddle to keep them warm. When your baby is big to be swaddled, think about a sleep sack to ensure they are comfortable and safe in the crib.
If you're planning on taking your baby traveling it could be beneficial to purchase a 3-in-1 travel crib. This type of bed can be used as co-sleeper, travel cot and bassinet for infants that are up to 6 months old. Silver Cross Slumber is popular because it comes with a cushioned bed that is constructed of breathable mesh. It is easy to clean, and folds up in a matter of seconds. This makes it an ideal option for families with busy schedules.