A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly product from Red Kite combines the functionality of a bassinet as well as a cot into one portable package. It comes with a newborn insert that can raise the baby to prevent back strain. This is perfect for those who have had C-sections.
It's easy to pack into a bag for travel and it pops up instantly without any assembly. The pull-and-click feature is easy to master however it comes with a knack you have to learn to.
Choosing the right bedside cot
A bedside crib will provide your baby with the security and protection they need to rest during an extended trip. They are ideal for family excursions and holidays as well as other adventures. The ideal one for you will depend on what you require. Some factors to consider include the type of cot you're looking for as well as the weight and the dimensions. You should also consider whether the cot will fit in your car, particularly with all the other baby gear you'll have to bring along for the trip.
A bedside cot is designed to be movable and easy to set up. They are small and lightweight which makes them ideal for travel with a baby or child. They are also simple to put together. The majority of these beds come with a mattress that is specifically designed to fit the dimensions of the crib, thereby helping your baby to get a good night's sleep.
Some of these cots come with added accessories that make them an ideal option for children and babies. Some travel cots come with a changing table attached to the side, while others have an additional bassinet. Some come with wheels that make them easier to move around.
Pick a cot that is sturdy enough to support your baby. This will stop it from falling over and spilling the baby's and their stuffed animal on the floor. You should also select the cot with mesh sides to allow air circulation. This will keep your child comfortable and happy.
It's an excellent idea to examine the folding mechanism of a travel cot prior to purchasing it. There is no need for an infant bed that you can open easily and could lead to the possibility of suffocation. The most secure models come with a locking mechanism that cannot be opened by a small child. Some models even have buckles to ensure safety and stability.
Bassinets
A portable bassinet, also known as a bedside cot can be a comfortable sleeping space for infants that allows parents to keep an eye on them. These are perfect for babies who are under six months old. They can be a great aid during flights because they are small and light, taking up a small amount of space. They can be easily stored when not being used.
In addition to the ease of storing and assembling, bassinets are designed to be safe and comfortable for babies to sleep in. Most are equipped with mesh walls that allow air to circulate easily and reduce the risk of the danger of suffocation. They also have a carry-bag and are made of materials that are non-toxic and easy to clean.
There are a variety of bassinets available, but you should look for one that is suitable to your baby's age and height. It is also important to look over the reviews and features of any bassinet you are considering purchasing before making a purchase.
You may want to consider an cot that can convert into an actual size bassinet. They are usually simpler to set up and take down than standard travel cots and they can be used from birth to toddlerhood. They often come with a toy arch and some have an entertainment center which plays music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines provide bassinets on long-haul flights, although it varies based on the type of aircraft used and the availability of seats. For example, Lufthansa offers bassinets on its long-haul fleet and you can reserve one upon booking for a cost. Etihad Airways offers bassinets for babies up to 24 pounds on its long-haul flights. You can request them at the time of booking or later, by using the Manage My Booking option on the airline's website.
Southwest does not have bassinets onboard its flights, and Icelandair only offers them on some of its long-haul routes. However, there are other airlines that do provide bassinets like Iberia. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking, or by contacting Iberia’s reservation office.
Drop-side Cots
Check out the options available if you're looking for a travel cot that can be used at your bedside from the moment you are born. These cots for bassinets are light and come with a carry case. They are ideal for traveling or sleeping over at friends or relatives at their homes. They also come with height adjustments and some can be tilted in an incline position for babies with reflux.
A cot that is placed near the bed makes it easier to reach your baby in case they awake during the night. This is crucial for breastfeeding mothers as it can help encourage more frequent and regular feedings that are vital for a healthy production of milk. Some cots have a drop-down side and some even have an inclined option that allows you to easily raise your baby for feeding and comforting without having to get out of bed.
While a travel cot for use in bed is a good idea however, you should use it with care. Cots that have movable parts like the drop side must be assembled carefully and regularly checked to ensure they are working properly. Older or secondhand cots might have broken rails, slats that are loose or filler bars that are broken. These can cause dangerous gaps where your child could fall or be trapped. Some cots might be older and not comply with current Australian safety standards.
If you opt to buy a second-hand cot, ensure that you go to the website of the manufacturer for instructions before you begin assembling it. Select bedside crib with wheels that has been constructed to the most recent safety standards.
We recommend the Chicco Next2me side sleeping crib as a premium option. It is incredibly simple to put together (one of the fastest in our MFM tests) and has neat zips to keep everything safe. It can be adjusted in height and an incline option to reduce reflux, and is very compact when folded up for storage.
Travel cots
Travel cots are great for parents who want a secure, comfortable and safe place to rest their child while they're away or at home. They're easy to fold and store, and then set up. They're great for sleepovers or holidays. Some models include the ability to rock or change your baby's mats to help to calm your baby or change them before bedtime.
When choosing a travel cot, make sure it's certified by the British Standard Institution and designed with your child's needs in mind. Also, make sure to check the age-appropriateness as a lot of them are suitable for infants from newborn (look out for ones with an integrated bassinet) and up to around three years old.
One of the main things to look for in a good travel cot is the quality of its mattress. Make sure it's comfortable and firm and is covered with an waterproof cover or mattress protector. The same is true for the base of the cot which should be solid and have non-slip feet that stop it from moving during use or when it is stored.
Other desirable features of a travel cot include mesh windows so you can keep an eye on your child as they sleep and a carry bag to make travel more convenient. You can find models that are also a playpen, or even have an electronic mobile. This will keep your child engaged and entertained.
A bedside travel cot is an excellent option if you want to create a safe space for your child. The best ones are simple to fold and unfold and can be tucked away in a bag for transport. They're also typically light and therefore ideal for travel, whether on a yacht or plane! If you're unsure of which model to buy, research the options and ask other parents for recommendations. A bedside travel cot is an excellent investment that will prove invaluable throughout the first few years of your child's existence.