Buying a Travel Bedside Crib
A crib mattress cover that is machine washable can be helpful if your baby has an accident or you want to clean the crib in between trips. This cover is simple to use and comes with an extra travel bag.
It has an innovative incline feature that eases reflux. It also works with divan beds as well as bed frames. It comes with side panels that are breathable to regulate the temperature of your baby as they sleep.
bedside cot 6 months plus is a space-saving solution for new parents. You can lay down next to your baby without having to worry about the risk of suffocation. Bedside cribs allow you to soothe your baby during the night, and easily reach them to feed or provide comfort without having to get up from bed. This is especially useful after a c-section birth.
They're also a good option for older babies who aren't big enough to fit into a toddler bed. But, it's essential to ensure that your crib meets 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 stop your child from rolling onto your bed.
Choose a crib that permits you to put your baby's feet near the bottom of the bed. This will allow them to feel more at ease and decrease the chance of them being sucked into the bed. Some models allow you to tilt your crib, which can be helpful for babies who have digestive issues like colic or reflux. It is important to use the crib tilting system with caution. It could increase the risk of your baby falling out.
Before packing away a travel crib, it should be thoroughly cleaned. This includes wiping down the mattress, any bedding and any fabric covers, plus cleaning any waterproof areas. This is crucial to avoid introducing mould or bacteria in your baby's sleeping environment. Remember to clean and dry any removable parts. Also, you should check the crib for signs that it's worn out and clean any fabrics that have come into contact with urine or faeces. 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 lets you to keep your child close while you sleep. It's a secure way to sleep in a cosleep position and can also be used as a crib for an individual or a travel crib when you stay with grandparents or on vacation. You can pick from a range of models to suit your bed height, with some designed for divan beds and others that attach to the sides of your bed like side-cars.
A great crib for your bed is one that is easy to clean, best with a removable mattress that can be machine washed. Also, you should look for a breathable mattress that keeps your baby cool and comfortable. Some of the best cribs also come with reflux inclines for infants suffering from acid reflux.
It is recommended to adhere to the Safe Sleep guidance provided by the Lullaby Trust and ensure your baby's crib is secure and there aren't any gaps between the mattress of an adult and the crib. You can also try a side-car crib such as the Chicco Next2Me. It is quick and simple to assemble, and comes with a handy bag for transport. It's a popular choice among MFM testers who found it to be the most portable and lightweight of the cribs for beds we reviewed.
It is completely safe to cosleep with your baby in a crib. However, it may not be the most practical option for long periods and could result in back discomfort. It is also important to keep in mind that these cribs are only suitable for six months, at which point you'll need to transfer them to an ordinary cot or moses basket.
Be cautious of cribs that have a barrier that can be lifted all the way down to your bed. This could cause your baby to roll out of the crib and onto the mattress. Most new bedside cribs will come with a half-height barrier that is lower than the mattress to prevent this from happening. One of our MFM testers found that this feature was not as straightforward to use as she expected however it was an effective solution for her family.
Buying a used crib
Second-hand baby products are a great option to save money for new parents. It doesn't matter if you need a brand new car seat or an extra crib for travelling, many baby items can be bought at consignment stores and flea markets as well as thrift shops for just a fraction of the cost of retail.
Travel cribs are among the baby items you should never buy second-hand. It's difficult to tell if a crib has been damaged in an accident, however some may have. This could make it unsafe. In addition the mattress of a used crib could have set-in stains and mold, as well as hidden indentations or depressions that could create a risk of suffocation for babies.

When shopping for a used crib that is portable, choose one that has mesh side panels and a sturdy mattress. It shouldn't have any straps or decorations that could create a strangulation risk or pose a risk of choking. Also, it should be easy to clean and come with an instruction manual in paper if it is feasible. If the manual isn't available, you might get a copy from the internet.
The Bump is proud to partner with Consumer ReportsOpens in new window, the reliable source for in-depth product information and recommendations. Consumer Reports experts assess thousands of products each year, which means the ratings and reviews that appear here are true.
Check that the crib meets the safety standards of the federal government before purchasing a used one. Compare it with the crib safety guidelines on the CPSC website. You can also check the website for recalls on specific cribs.
Some parents decide to sell their travel cribs once their child leaves them, this is a bad idea. In time a crib mattress that has been used could be a danger to suffocate and contaminated with bacteria. It is essential to check the mattress for cleanliness by pressing it into it using your hands. If it leaves a mark, it is too soft and shouldn't be used.
If you purchase a used crib for your baby and you are able to let it lay down in it for a few weeks prior to your travels. Try setting it up in your home and let them sleep there throughout the day for a few days before you travel. This will help them adjust to the new sleeping environment and ease their stress on your journey.
Getting started
A bedside crib for travel is also known as a portable crib or play yard provides a safe place for your baby to sleep while traveling. Some parents choose to use a travel crib at home or when visiting family and friends or bring it with them on vacation. A crib for travel will make your vacation more enjoyable and relaxing for you and your child.
Find a portable cot that is easy to assemble and fold. Make sure you read the directions before you purchase to ensure the procedure is easy and you're comfortable with it. Select a crib that has the ability to wash it in the machine to cut down on time and cost. Maintaining your crib clean will keep it looking brand new and many consignment stores won't accept a dirty portable crib.
Before you leave Practice setting up and folding the crib at home. This will help your baby become used to the crib and will make it easier for them to move to the hotel. You can even put a lovey or favorite blanket inside to help familiarize your baby with the surroundings and smell.
It is important to keep your baby close whether they are asleep or awake. You can rock them or hold them to help them fall asleep and get up. You can also put them in their crib with a favourite blanket and swaddle to keep them warm. If your baby is too old for swaddling, you can opt for a sleep sack. This will keep them safe and comfortable in their crib.
If you're planning on taking your baby with you on vacation it might be beneficial to purchase a 3-in-1 travel crib. This type of bed can be used as a co-sleeper, travel cot and bassinet for infants from 6 months to 6 years old. Silver Cross Slumber is popular because it features a padded bed that is made of breathable mesh. It's also easy to clean and folds up in seconds, making it a great option for busy families.