Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
A mattress cover that is machine washable is important for those times when your baby has a messy accident or you have to freshen up the crib between trips. This cover is perfect for this and comes with an easy-to-use travel bag.
It features a clever incline option that helps to ease reflux, and works with divan beds as well as bed frames. It has sides with breathable mesh to regulate the temperature of your baby as they sleep.
Safety
A bedside crib is an ideal solution for parents who are new. It's safe for your baby to sleep in close proximity to you, but without the danger of sharing a bed (which could result in the risk of suffocation). Bedside cribs allow you to soothe your baby during the night, and to easily reach them to feed or soothe them without having to get up from bed. This is especially useful after a c-section birth.

They're also a good option for older children who are still too small to fit in the bed of a toddler. It's essential that your bedside baby crib meets the most recent safety standards. Look for a crib that is compliant with BS EN1130:2019. This requires a 120mm high barrier between the crib and parent's mattress to stop your child from slipping onto your bed.
Find a crib that allows the baby's feet on the bottom of the bed. This will allow them to feel more at ease and lower the chance of being trapped in the bed. Some cribs let you tilt your crib, which is helpful for babies who have digestive issues such as colic or reflux. However, be aware that tilting the crib may increase the chance of your baby being thrown out, so it's best done with caution and only with the guidance of your physician or health professional.
When not in use, the travel crib must be thoroughly cleaned prior to when it is packed away. This should include wiping down the mattress, bedding, and any covers made of fabric and cleaning any water-proof areas. It is essential to do this to prevent introducing bacteria or mould into the baby's sleep environment. Be sure to wash and wipe down every part that is removable. You should also check the crib for signs of wear and tear, and clean any fabric that has come into contact with faeces or urine because they can get dirty and lead to infections. You should do this every time you use the crib, and before placing it in storage.
Sleeping in
A bedside crib is a safe and practical way to keep your baby close while you rest. It's a secure way to sleep together and can also be used as a crib for an individual or travel crib when staying with your grandparents or taking a vacation. You can choose from a wide range of models to suit 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 as an side-car.
A great crib for bed is one that is simple to clean. It should have a removable mattress and be machine washable. Also, you should look for mattresses that are breathable, keeping your baby cool and comfortable. Some of the best cribs also come with a reflux incline to help babies with acid reflux.
You should always adhere to 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 mattress of an adult and the crib. You could also consider a side-car crib like the Chicco Next2Me. It is quick and easy to put together and comes with a convenient bag for travel. This is a popular choice among MFM testers, who found it to be the lightest and most portable of the bedside cribs we tested.
While it is completely safe to cosleep in the crib, you must be aware that this might not be the most relaxing option for prolonged periods of time and could cause back pain. These cribs should only be used for up to six months. After that, you'll have to switch to a cot or moses basket.
Be cautious about a crib with an opening that opens all up to your mattress. This can lead to your baby rolling out of the crib onto your mattress, which is not 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 testers discovered that this feature wasn't as easy to use as she expected however it was an excellent solution for her family.
Buying an used crib
Buying second-hand baby items is a common money-saving strategy for new parents. Consignment shops or flea markets, as well as thrift stores are excellent places to locate baby items at a fraction the price retail.
However, there are certain baby items that shouldn't be purchased second-hand, such as travel cribs. It's difficult to tell whether a crib has been in an accident, but certain cribs may have. This could result in it being unsafe. A used crib mattress could also have mold and stains that are hard-set, as well hidden indentations or depressions. These can be suffocation dangers for babies.
If you are looking for a secondhand portable baby crib, choose one with mesh side panels and a firm mattress. It should not have any decorations or straps which could pose a strangulation hazard or choking risk. Also, it should be easy to clean and have a paper manual if it is possible. If the manual is not available, you can often locate a copy on the internet.
Consumer ReportsOpens a new window is a reliable source for information on products and suggestions. The Bump is proud to be a partner with Consumer Reports. Consumer Reports experts evaluate thousands products every year, so the reviews and ratings you read here are accurate.
When you're looking for an older crib, make sure it meets federal safety standards. Check it against the crib safety guidelines on the CPSC website. You can also go to the website to look up recalls on a particular crib.
While some parents sell their cribs for travel when their child is no longer in them, this is an unwise choice. A used crib mattress can develop suffocation hazards as time passes, and is often contaminated with bacteria. Press firmly with your hand into the mattress to test for cleanliness. If bedside crib with wheels leaves a mark, it is too soft and shouldn't be used.
If you decide to purchase a used crib, give your baby the chance to sleep in it before your journey. Set it up in your home and letting them sleep there during the day for a few days before you leave for your trip. This will allow them to get used to the new sleeping space and lessen the stress they will experience on your trip.
Getting started
A bedside crib that is portable, also known as a portable crib or play yard, offers a safe and secure place for your child to rest while you travel. Some parents choose to use the crib at home or when visiting family and friends or bring it with them when they go on vacation. A travel crib can make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing for both you and your child.
Find a portable cot that is easy to assemble and fold. Make sure you read the directions before you buy to ensure that the process is straightforward and you're comfortable with it. Choose a crib with a machine-washable feature to save time and money. Keep your crib clean and it will appear like new. Many consignment shops won't accept a dirty baby crib.
Practice folding and setting the crib prior to your journey. This will help get your baby familiar with it, making the transition from a hotel room feel less daunting. You can also put an adorable or favorite blanket inside to help familiarize your baby with the room and smell.
If your baby is asleep or awake it's vital to remain close to them while they're in the crib. You can rock or hug them to help them sleep and wake up. You can also put them in the crib with their favorite blanket and swaddle them to keep them warm. Once your baby is too big for swaddling, consider a sleep bag to keep them cozy and secure in the crib.
If you're planning to take your baby on a trip then a crib that is 3-in-1 may be the best option. This type of bed can be used as co-sleeper, travel crib as well as a bassinet for babies that are up to 6 months old. The Silver Cross Slumber is a popular choice because it includes an upholstered mattress and is constructed of breathable mesh. bedside cots for newborns 's also easy to clean and folds away in seconds, making it a great choice for families with busy schedules.