Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
A mattress cover that is machine washable is important for those times when your baby has an accident or you have to clean the crib between trips. This one does just that and comes with a convenient travel bag.
It has a clever incline option that can ease reflux and is compatible with divan beds as well as framed bed frames. It features side panels that are breathable to help maintain the temperature of your baby as they sleep.
Safety
A bedside crib can be a space-saving solution for parents who are new. You can lay down next to your child without having to worry about being suffocated. Bedside cribs can also allow you to provide comfort for your baby at night and access them for feeding or comforting, without the need to get up which is a great benefit after a c-section birth.
These cribs are also a great choice for older children who aren't big enough to fit in a toddler bed. It's essential that your bedside baby crib is compliant with the most current safety standards - search for a crib that complies with BS EN1130:2019. This requires a 120mm high barrier between the crib and parent's mattress to stop your child from rolling onto yours.
You can also look out for a travel crib that offers the 'feet-to-foot' position, where you place your baby in the crib with their feet towards the foot of the bed - this helps them to stay more comfortable and lessens the chance of them becoming stuck under covers. Some cribs also allow you to tilt the crib, which can be helpful for babies suffering from digestive issues such as colic or reflux. You should use the crib tilting feature with caution. bedside travel crib can increase the risk of your baby falling out.
Before packing away a crib, it should be thoroughly cleaned. This includes cleaning the mattress, any bedding or fabric covers as well as cleaning any waterproof areas. This is important to prevent introducing bacteria or mould into the environment where your baby sleeps. Be sure to clean up any removable parts and clean them regularly. You should also check the crib for signs that it's worn out and clean any materials that have come into contact with faeces and urine. They can be dirty and lead to infections. It is recommended to do this each time you use the crib and before placing it in storage.
Sleeping in
A bedside crib allows you to keep your child close to you while you rest. It's a secure way to cosleep and can be used as an independent crib or a travel crib when you stay with grandparents or going on vacation. You can choose between various models that are suitable for your bed height. Some are made for divan beds while others are attached to the side of your bed like a sidecar.
A great bedside crib is one that is simple to clean. It should have a removable mattress and be machine washable. Look for a mattress that is air-conditioned to keep your baby cool. Some of the top cribs also have reflux inclines for babies suffering from acid reflux.
You should always follow the Safe Sleep guidance provided by the Lullaby Trust and ensure your baby's bedding is secure and there aren't any gaps between the mattress of an adult and the crib. You can also consider a side-car baby crib, such as the Chicco Next2Me. It is simple to assemble and includes an accompanying travel bag. MFM testers found this to be the most lightweight and portable of all bedside cribs they reviewed.
It is perfectly safe to sleep with your child in a crib. However, it might not be the most practical option for long periods and could cause back pain. It is also important to keep in mind that these cribs are only suitable for up to six months, at which point you'll need to transfer them to a regular moses basket or cot.
Be wary of a model with drop-down barriers that drop all up to your mattress. This can lead to your child escaping from the crib onto your mattress, which isn't recommended. Most new bedside cribs will come with a half-height barrier that is lower than the mattress to help prevent this from happening. One of our MFM test participants discovered that the feature was not as simple to use as expected however, it was beneficial for her family.
Buying a crib that is second-hand
The purchase of second-hand baby items is a popular way to save money for parents who are new. Whether you need a new car seat or an extra crib to travel with, many baby items can be bought in consignment stores and flea markets as well as thrift stores for a fraction of the price of retail.
Travel cribs are among the baby items you shouldn't purchase second-hand. It is difficult to determine whether a crib has been damaged in an accident, however there are some that have. This could make it unsafe. Additionally the mattress of a used crib could have set-in stains and mold, and hidden depressions or indentations that can cause suffocation risks for infants.
When looking for a used portable baby crib, choose one with mesh side panels and firm mattress. It should also have no decorations or straps that could pose the risk of strangulation or choking. Lastly, it should be easy to clean and have an instruction manual in paper if it is it is possible. If the manual is not there it is usually possible to find an online copy.
The Bump is proud to be a partner with Consumer ReportsOpens in new window, the trusted source for in-depth product information and advice. Experts from CR evaluate thousands of products every year, and you can feel confident in the reviews and ratings that you read here.
Check that the crib meets the federal safety standards prior to purchasing a used one. The most effective way to determine this is to compare it to the crib safety guidelines available on the site of the CPSC. You can also visit the site to check for recalls on the crib you are using.
While some parents sell their travel cribs once their child is no longer in them, it's not a good idea. A used crib mattress can become a suffocation risk over time, and is often infected with bacteria. Press your hands firmly into the mattress to test for cleanliness. If it leaves an impression, it's too soft and shouldn't be used.
If you decide to buy a used crib, give your baby the opportunity to sleep in it prior to your journey. Set it up at home and allow them to sleep throughout the day a few days prior to your journey. This will allow them to adjust to the new sleeping space and ease their stress during your trip.
Getting started
A travel bedside crib, also known as a portable crib or play yard provides a safe place for your child to sleep during your travels. Some parents take 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 can make your vacation more enjoyable and relaxing for both you and your child.
When you're looking for a portable crib, look for one that is simple to put together and fold down. Check the instructions before you purchase to ensure the procedure is easy and that you're comfortable using it. Also, make sure you choose a crib that's machine washable, since this feature will save you time and money. Keep your portable crib clean to ensure it looks like new. Many consignment shops won't accept a dirty baby crib.
Do some practice folding and putting up the crib before your trip. This will help get your baby familiar with it, making the transition to the hotel room less intimidating. You can also put your favorite blanket or a blanket in it to familiarize your baby with the surroundings and smell.
It's important to keep your baby close whether they are asleep or awake. You can comfort them or rock them to assist them to fall asleep and wake up. Alternately, you can put them in the crib with their favorite blanket and wrap them in a swaddle to keep them warm. When your baby is too old to Swaddling, you can use a sleep sack. This will ensure that they are safe and secure in their crib.
If you're planning on taking your baby traveling, it may be helpful to invest in a 3-in-1 travel crib. This type of bed can be used as a co-sleeper, travel cot and bassinet for infants up to 6 months old. The Silver Cross Slumber is a popular option because it comes with a padded mattress that is made of breathable mesh. It is easy to clean, and folds in just a few just a few seconds. This makes it a perfect option for busy families.