A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget option from Red Kite offers the functionality of a cot and bassinet in a compact, portable package. It has a newborn insert that sits baby up high to prevent back strain. It is also ideal for those who have had C-sections.
It's easy to put into the bag for travel, and it is ready to use without assembly. The pull-and-click function is easy to learn however, it does have an ability that you need to master.
How do you choose a bedside cot
A bedside cot can provide an ideal and secure place for your baby's sleep, giving them the comfort they need during a long journey. They're ideal for holidays or family outings, as well as other adventures. The process of selecting the right one will depend on your personal requirements. You should consider the type of travel crib you want along with its weight and dimensions. You'll want to make sure that the cot fits in your car with all of the other baby equipment you have to bring.
A bedside cot should be easy to transport and install. They are lightweight and compact, which makes them ideal for travel with a baby or a child. They are also easy to put together. These beds are usually equipped with a mattress that fits perfectly into the crib. This allows your child to get a restful night's sleep.
Some of these cots are equipped with extra features which make them a good option for infants and children. Some travel cots have an attached changing table to the side, and others come with a bassinet. Some come with wheels to make them easier to move.
Pick a cot that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will stop it from falling over and spilling the baby's food and their stuffed toys on the floor. You should also select a cot that has mesh sides that allow for air circulation. This will keep your child comfortable and happy.
Before you purchase a travel cot it's a good idea to check the folding system. You don't need a bed that a child could open easily which could cause the possibility of suffocation. The best beds have locks that are impossible to manipulate by the child. Certain models feature buckles for security and stability.
Bassinets
A bedside travel cot or bassinet is a portable infant sleeping space that lets parents keep an eye on their newborns. They are ideal for infants under six months and are an excellent aid on travel because they are compact and light, taking up very little space. They can also be stored away easily when not in use, which makes them ideal for traveling.
Bassinets are not only simple to store and assemble They also provide a safe and comfortable baby's sleeping space. The majority of them are equipped with mesh walls that allow air to circulate well and minimize the risk of suffocation. They also come with a bag for carrying and are constructed from materials that are safe and easy to clean.
There are a variety of bassinets available. You should pick one that fits your baby's size and age. It is recommended to read reviews and specifications of any bassinet you are considering before making an investment.
Think about a cot that can be converted into an infant bassinet. They are usually easier to install and disassemble than standard travel cots and they can be used from birth until toddlerhood. They usually come with a toy arch and some even have an entertainment center that can play music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights, but it varies based on the aircraft type and seats available. For example, Lufthansa offers bassinets on its long-haul fleet, and you can reserve one at the time of booking for a fee. Etihad Airways offers bassinets for babies weighing up to 24 pounds on its long-haul flight. They can be requested at the time of booking, or by using the Manage My Booking feature on the airline's website.
Icelandair does not have bassinets available on its flights. However, there are bedside crib or cot that do offer bassinets, like Iberia. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking, or by calling Iberia’s reservation office.
Drop-side Cots
If you're looking for an upholstered bedside cot that you can use from birth, check out the variety of options available. These bassinet cots are lightweight and come with a carry case. They are perfect for traveling or sleeping over at relatives' or friends house. They also come with height adjustments, and some can be tilted to an incline to accommodate babies with reflux.
The primary benefit of having a bedside cot is that it makes it easier for you to reach your baby whenever they awake in the middle of the night. This is especially important if you're breastfeeding, as the close proximity could assist in encouraging more frequent and consistent feeding which is essential to a healthy production of milk. Some cots come with a drop-down option and some even have an inclined position, making it easier to lift your child to feed and comfort them without having to get up from bed.
While a travel cot for bedside use may be convenient however, you should use it with caution. Cots that are movable such as the drop-side, should be constructed with care and inspected regularly to ensure they are working properly. Second-hand or older cots may have broken rails, loose slats or filler bars that are broken. These can create dangerous gaps where your child can fall or be trapped. Additionally, some cots are older and may not be in compliance with current Australian safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a secondhand cot, ensure that you check the manufacturer's website for instructions before you start assembling it. Choose a cot that is built to the latest safety standards.
For a quality option we recommend the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib. It is simple to put together and is among the fastest in our MFM test. It also has nice zips that ensure that everything is secure. It can be adjusted in height, including an incline option to reduce reflux, and is very compact when folded for storage.
Travel cots
Travel cots are ideal for parents who want a secure, comfortable and safe place to lay their child down while they're away or at home. They're easy to put up, fold and store they're great for sleepovers or during holidays. Some models even feature an changing mat or a rocking mechanism to help change your baby before the bedtime time or help calm them before they go to bed.
When shopping for a travel cot, ensure it's certified by the British Standard Institution and designed with your child in mind. Also, look into the age-appropriateness of the product as a lot of them are suitable for babies as young as newborn (look out for ones with an integrated bassinet) and up to around three years.
One of the main things to look for in a great travel cot is the quality of its mattress. Be sure that it is firm and padded and includes an apex-proof mattress cover or protector. This is also true for the base of the cot, which should be sturdy and have non-slip feet that prevent it from moving during use or when it is stored.
A travel cot should come with a mesh window that can keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, and a carry bag for easier transportation. There are also models that double as a playpen, or musical toys to keep your child entertained and engaged.
A bedside travel cot is a great option if you want to create a secure space for your child. The best ones are easy to fold and unfold and can be tucked away in bags for transport. They're typically light making them suitable for travel, whether on a plane or yacht! If you're not sure about the right model, take your time researching the available options and speak with other parents to get their suggestions. A bedside travel cot is a great investment that will be invaluable throughout the first few years of your child's life.