Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
Having a machine-washable mattress cover is essential for those occasions when your baby has a dirty accident or you need to freshen up the crib after a trip. This cover is simple to use and comes with an extra travel bag.
It has a clever incline feature that can help ease reflux. It is compatible with divan beds as well as frame-like bed frames. It also features breathable mesh sides to help regulate your baby's temperature while sleeping.
Safety
A bedside crib is a space-saving solution for new parents. It is safe for your baby to sleep in close proximity to you but without the risk of sharing a bed (which can lead to the risk of suffocation). Bedside cribs allow you to soothe your baby during the night and reach them to feed or soothe them without having to get up from bed. This is particularly beneficial after a c section birth.
These cribs are also a great choice for older children who are too small to fit into a toddler bed. It's crucial to ensure that your crib meets the most recent safety standards. Look for an item that meets BS EN 1130:2019. This requires a 120mm-high barrier between the crib and your child's mattress to stop your child from falling onto yours.
You can also search for a travel crib that can accommodate the 'feet-to foot' position, where you put your baby in the crib with their feet towards the bottom of the bed - this helps them to stay more comfortable and reduces the risk of them getting trapped under covers. Certain cribs allow you to tilt your crib, which can be ideal for babies suffering from digestive issues like reflux or colic. You should use the crib tilting system with caution. It can increase the risk of your baby falling out.
When not in use, the travel crib must be thoroughly cleaned prior to when it is packed away. This includes cleaning the mattress, any bedding and any fabric covers, plus cleaning any waterproof areas. This is essential to prevent the introduction of mold or bacteria into your baby's sleep environment. Be sure to clean up any removable parts and wash them frequently too. You should also check the crib for signs of wear and tear and clean any fabrics that come in contact with faeces or urine because they can get contaminated and cause infections. You should do this every time you use the crib as well as before storing it.
Sleeping in
A bedside crib is a safe and practical option to keep your baby close as you sleep. It lets you sleep safely and can also be used as a stand-alone crib or a travel crib for extended stays with grandparents or for trips on holidays. You can pick from a wide range of models to suit your bed height and bed size, including some that are made for divan beds and others that can be attached to the side of your bed like side-cars.
A great bedside crib is one that is simple to clean. It should have a removable mattress and be machine washable. Also, you should look for an air-conditioned mattress that keeps your baby cool and comfortable. Some of the top cribs also have a reflux incline for infants suffering from acid reflux.
It is recommended to follow the Safe Sleep guidance provided by the Lullaby Trust and ensure your baby's bedding is secure and there are no gaps between the mattress of an adult and the crib. You can also test an alternative side-car crib, such as the Chicco Next2Me, which is quick and simple to assemble, and comes with a handy travel bag. It is a favorite with MFM testers, who found it to be the most portable and light of the cribs for beds we evaluated.
While it is safe to sleep in the crib, you must be aware that this might not be the most comfortable option for prolonged periods of time and could lead to back discomfort. The cribs can only be used for six months. After that, you'll need change them to a cot or moses basket.
Be wary of a model with a drop-down barrier that drops all up to your bed. This could cause your baby to roll out of the crib and onto the mattress. baby bedside crib of new cribs for bed come with a 'half-height' barrier that is lower than your 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 useful for her family.
Buying an old crib
Buying second-hand baby items is a popular way to save money for new parents. Consignment shops as well as flea markets and thrift stores are great places to find baby items at a fraction the cost of retail.
Travel cribs are one of the baby products you shouldn't buy second-hand. While it's difficult to know the history of a crib that has been used however, some cribs may have been in accidents, which can make them dangerous. Additionally the mattress used in a crib may be covered in stains or mold, as well as hidden depressions or indentations that could cause suffocation risks for infants.
When shopping for a used portable crib, look for one that has mesh sides and a sturdy mattress. It should not have any straps or decorations that could be a strangulation danger or choking hazard. It must also be easy to clean, and if possible, have a manual printed on paper. If the manual is missing it's likely to be found an online copy.
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When looking for a second-hand crib, make sure that it meets federal safety standards. The easiest way to check is to compare it to the crib safety guidelines on the website of the CPSC. You can also check the website for recalls for a specific crib.
While some parents sell their travel cribs when their child leaves them, this is a bad idea. Over time a crib mattress that has been used could be a danger to suffocate and contaminated 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 purchase a second-hand crib for your baby, let him or her lay down in it for a few days before your travels. Set it up at home and let them sleep in it throughout the day just a few days before your trip. This will help them become comfortable with the new sleeping space and ease their stress during your journey.
Getting started
A travel crib, also referred to as a portable crib, or a play yard, provides a safe place to rest your child while you are traveling. Some parents bring their cribs with them on vacation, whereas others use it at home or when visiting family and friends. Whatever the reason, a crib for travel can make your trip more relaxing and enjoyable for both you and your child.
Look for a portable cot that is simple to put together and fold. Before you buy, make sure you go through the directions to ensure that the procedure is simple and you are comfortable with it. Also, make sure you choose one that is machine washable. This feature can save you time and money. Maintaining your crib clean will help keep it looking brand new, and many consignment stores will not accept an unclean crib.
Before your trip Practice setting up and folding the crib at home. This will help your baby get used to it, making the transition from a hotel room feel less intimidating. You can place an old blanket or a soft toy inside to help familiarize your child with the smell and space.
Whether your baby is awake or asleep it's vital to remain close to them in the crib. You can rock or hold them to help them sleep and get up. You can also put them in their crib with a favorite blanket and swaddle to keep them warm. Once your baby is too large to swaddle, you might want to consider a sleep sack to ensure they are comfortable and safe while they're in the crib.
If you are planning to take your baby on a trip then a crib that is 3-in-1 may be the best option. The bed is suitable for infants as well as a travel cot or bassinet. The Silver Cross Slumber is a popular option because it comes with a padded mattress and is made from an air-tight mesh. It is also easy to clean and folds up in a matter of seconds. This makes it an ideal option for families with busy schedules.