A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This affordable option from Red Kite offers the functionality of a cot and bassinet in a compact, portable package. It comes with a newborn insert that can be set up high to avoid back strain and is perfect for those who have had C-sections.
It packs down into a travel bag and pops up in a matter of seconds with no assembly required. The pull-and click functionality is easy to master, but it has a knack you have to master.
Choosing a bedside cot
A bedside crib provides your child with the safety and security they need to sleep during a long trip. These are perfect for family vacations, holidays and other adventures. The process of choosing the right one will depend on your individual needs. A few things to consider are the type of travel cot you're looking to purchase as well as the weight and the dimensions. You'll want to make sure that the cot will fit in your car alongside the other baby equipment you need to bring along.
A bedside cot must be able to move around and easy to set up. They're small and light which makes them ideal for travel with a baby or a child. They are also simple to put together. These beds are usually equipped with mattresses that fit perfectly in the crib. This helps your child get a restful night's sleep.
Some of these cribs are equipped with extra features, making them a great option for children and babies. For instance, some come with a changing station that is attached to the side of the cot and others come with a bassinet that is suitable for infants. You can also find a few that have wheels, which makes them easier to move around the room.
Pick a cot that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will prevent it from falling over and spilling the baby's food and their stuffed animal on the floor. You should also choose a cot that has mesh sides that allow for air circulation. This will keep your child cool and happy.
Before purchasing a travel cot, it's a good idea look at the folding system. You don't want a bed that is easily opened by a toddler and cause the death of a child. The best models include a locking mechanism that cannot be easily manipulated by a tiny child. Some models come with buckles for safety and stability.
Bassinets
A bedside travel cot or bassinet is an infant sleeping area that is portable that lets parents keep an eye on their newborns. They are perfect for babies between 6 and 6 months old and can be a great help during flights, as they are small, light and take up little space. They are easy to store when not in use.
Bassinets aren't only easy to store and assemble but they also provide a safe and comfy place for babies to rest. Most bassinets come with mesh walls, which allow air to circulate and decrease the chance of suffocation. The majority of them come with a bag for carrying and are constructed of non-toxic materials and easy-to-clean.
There are many models of bassinets available However, you should search for one that is suited to your baby's size and age. It's important to check out the reviews and features of any bassinet before making an investment.
Think about a cot that can be transformed into an infant bassinet. They are easier to set-up and take-down than regular travel cots, and can be used by babies all the way to toddlers. Some are equipped with a toy bar while others come with an entertainment center that plays music, lights, and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights. However, this could vary depending upon the type of aircraft and seats available. For instance, Lufthansa offers bassinets on its long-haul fleet and you can reserve one upon booking for a cost. Etihad Airways also offers bassinets on its long-haul flights to infants up to 24 pounds. You can request them at the time of booking or later using the Manage My Booking option on the airline's website.
Southwest does not provide bassinets on its flights, and Icelandair only has bassinets on its long-haul routes. Iberia is among the airlines that provide bassinets. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking, or by calling Iberia's reservation center.
Drop-side Cots
If you're in search of a bedside travel cot that you can use from birth, look through the variety of options available. These cots that resemble bassinets come with their own carrying case and are lightweight, making them ideal for travel or sleepovers at friends' or relatives at their homes. These cots also come with adjustable height settings, and some can be tilted upwards for babies with reflux.
The primary benefit of a cot that is placed near to the bed is that it makes it easier for you to reach your baby when they wake up in the middle of the night. This is important for breastfeeding mothers as it will encourage more frequent and consistent feedings, which are essential for a healthy milk production. Some cribs have a drop-down side and some even come with an incline option, which makes it easy to raise your baby for feeding and comforting without having to get out of bed.
It's important to remember that while a bedside travel cot is convenient but it should be used with care. Cots that move, such as the drop side must be constructed with care and regularly checked to ensure they are working properly. Second-hand or older cots may have broken rails, loose slats or broken filler bars that can cause dangerous gaps where your child could fall or be trapped. Some cots might be older and not meet current Australian safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a secondhand cot, make sure you visit the manufacturer's website to find instructions before assembling it. You should also always choose the newest cot that has been built using the latest safety standards in mind.
We recommend the Chicco Next2me side sleeping crib as a premium option. It is easy to assemble and one of the most responsive in our MFM test. It also comes with nice zips that keep everything in place. It comes with a variety of height settings, including an incline for reflux, and is compact when folded to store.
Travel cots
Travel cots (or extra beds) are a great option for parents looking for an area that is safe to put their baby or toddler down, whether they're at home or out on the road. Easy to set up baby bedside sleeper and store and take down, they're ideal for sleepovers or holidays. Some models even feature changing mats or a rocking mechanism that can help you change your baby before bedtime or calm them down before they go to sleep.
When shopping for a travel cot, make sure it is rated by the British Standard Institution and designed with your child's interests in mind. Make sure you check the age range since some are suitable from the time of birth (look for ones that have an integrated bassinet) up to three years.
One of the most important things to look for in a good travel cot is the quality of its mattress. It should be firm, cushioned and have a waterproof cover. The cot's base should also be solid with feet that are non-slip to prevent it from shifting when in storage or use.
A travel cot should include a mesh window to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, and a carry bag for easier transportation. There are models that also have playpen-like, or have musical mobiles. This will keep your child engaged and entertained.
If you're looking for an efficient and simple method to create a secure sleeping area for your infant or toddler, then a bedside travel cot could be the perfect solution. The best ones are easy to fold and unfold and can be tucked away in bags for transportation. They're usually fairly lightweight too which makes them perfect to travel with, even on a plane or yacht! If you're not sure the best model to pick make sure you research the options available and talk with other parents to get their recommendations. A bedside travel cot is a great investment that will prove invaluable for the first few years of your child's life.