Can Travel Bedside Crib Never Rule The World?
Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
A crib mattress cover that can be washed by a machine can be useful when your baby has an accident or you want to clean the crib between trips. This one does just that and comes with an easy-to-use travel bag.
It has a clever incline option that can ease reflux, and works with divan beds as well as bed frames. It also features breathable mesh sides to aid in regulating your baby's temperature during sleep.
Safety
A bedside crib can save space for parents who are new. You can rest close to your child without worrying about the risk of suffocation. Bedside cribs can also allow you to provide comfort for your baby in the night and have them easily reach them to feed or comfort them without needing to get out of bed which is especially helpful after the birth of a c-section.
They're also a good option for older children who aren't quite big enough to be able to fit into a toddler bed. However, it's important to ensure that your crib is compliant with the latest safety standards - look for a model that complies with BS EN 1130:2019. This requires a 120mm-high barrier between the crib and the parent's mattress to prevent your child from slipping onto yours.
Choose a crib that allows you to put your baby's feet near the bottom of the bed. This will allow them to feel more comfortable and reduce the risk of them being sucked into the bed. Some cribs let you tilt your crib, which is beneficial for babies with digestive issues like reflux or colic. It is recommended to use the crib tilting feature with caution. It can increase the chance of your baby falling out.
When not in use the crib for travel must be thoroughly cleaned prior to when it is packed away. This includes cleaning the bedding, mattress and fabric covers. It also involves cleaning any areas that are water-proof. This is essential to prevent introducing mold or bacteria into the environment where your baby sleeps. Also, remember to wipe down any removable parts and wash them regularly too. Also, you should check the crib for signs of being worn out and clean any fabric that have come into contact with faeces and urine. These can become infected and cause infection. This should be done each time before you use the crib and before packing it away to be stored away.
Sleeping in
A bedside crib allows you to keep your child close to you while you rest. It's a secure way to sleep together and can be used as an independent crib or a travel crib when you stay with grandparents or going on vacation. You can pick from a wide range of models that will fit the height of your bed and bed size, including some that are designed for divan beds and others that can be attached to the sides of your bed like an side-car.
A great bedside crib is one that is simple to clean. It must have a removable mattress and be machine washable. Find a mattress that is air-conditioned to keep your baby cool. Some of the top cribs also come with reflux inclines for babies suffering from acid reflux.
Follow the Safe Sleep guidelines provided by the Lullaby Trust to ensure that your baby's crib is secure and that there aren't gaps between the crib and the mattress for adults. You can also try an alternative side-car crib, such as the Chicco Next2Me, which is quick and easy to assemble and comes with a handy bag for transport. It's a popular choice among MFM test participants who found it to be the most portable and light of the bedside cribs we evaluated.
While it is perfectly safe to cosleep in a crib, you should be aware that this may not be the most relaxing option for long durations of time and may cause back discomfort. It is also important to keep in mind that these cribs are only suitable for up to 6 months, after which you'll need to transfer them to an ordinary cot or moses basket.
Be cautious with models that have barriers that can be lowered all the way to your bed. This could cause your baby to fall out of the crib and onto your mattress. Most new bedside cribs have a half-height barrier lower then the mattress to prevent this. One of our MFM test participants discovered that the feature was not as simple to use as she expected however, it was useful for her family.
Buy a second-hand crib
Second-hand baby items are a great option to save money for new parents. Consignment shops or flea markets, as well as thrift stores are great places to locate baby items at a fraction the price retail.
However, there are some baby items that shouldn't be bought secondhand, including travel cribs. While it's difficult to know a used crib's history however, some cribs may have been in accidents, making them dangerous. In addition the mattress of a used crib could have set-in stains and mold, and hidden depressions or indentations that can pose suffocation hazards for babies.
If you are looking for a secondhand crib for your baby, opt for one with mesh side panels and the mattress is firm. It should also be free of decorations or straps that could pose the risk of strangulation or choking. It must also be easy to clean, and if you can it should have a manual on paper. If the manual is not available, you can often find a copy on the internet.
The Bump is delighted to be a part of Consumer ReportsOpens in new window the most reliable source for in-depth product information and recommendations. Consumer Reports experts review thousands of products each year, which means the ratings and reviews that you read here are accurate.
When you're looking for a second-hand crib, make sure it is safe according to federal standards. Compare it with the crib safety guidelines available on the CPSC website. You can also look on the website for recalls for a specific crib.
While some parents sell their travel cribs once their child is no longer in them, it's an unwise choice. A used crib mattress can become a suffocation risk as time passes, and is often infected with bacteria. Press bedside cot 6 months plus into the mattress to test for cleanliness. If it leaves an indentation, it's too soft and should not be used.
If you choose to purchase a second-hand crib, give your baby the chance to rest in it prior your travels. Try setting it up in your home and letting them sleep there during the day for a few weeks prior to the time you travel. This will help them adjust to the new environment and reduce the stress they experience during your journey.
Getting started
A travel bedside crib or portable crib or play yard, provides a safe space for your baby to rest while you travel. Some parents bring their crib with them when they go on vacation, while others make use of 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 baby.

When shopping for a portable crib, look for one that is easy to install and fold down. Review the instructions prior to you buy to ensure that the process is straightforward and that you're comfortable using it. Also, make sure you choose a crib that's machine washable, since this feature will help you save time and money. Keep your portable crib clean to keep it looking fresh and new. Many consignment stores won't accept a dirty baby crib.
Before you travel prepare by setting up and folding the crib at home. This will help your baby get used to the crib and will make it easier for them to make the transition to the hotel. You can place an old blanket or a soft toy in the room to familiarize your child with the smell and space.
It is important to keep your baby close, whether they're asleep or awake. You can hold them or rock them to help them fall asleep and then wake up. Alternately, you can put them in the crib with their favorite blanket and wrap them in a swaddle to keep them warm. If your baby is too old for swaddling, you can opt for a sleep sack. This will ensure that they are safe and comfortable in their crib.
If you're planning to take your baby traveling it might be beneficial to purchase a 3-in-1 travel crib. This kind of bed can be used as co-sleeper, travel crib and bassinet for newborns from 6 months to 6 years old. The Silver Cross Slumber is a popular choice because it includes an upholstered mattress and is constructed of mesh that is breathable. It's also easy to clean and folds down in seconds which makes it an ideal option for busy families.