A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly model from Red Kite combines the functionality of both a bassinet & crib into one compact package. It has a newborn insert that can be set up high to prevent back strain and is ideal for those who have had C-sections.
It folds down into a travel bag and is ready to use in a matter of seconds without assembly. The pull-and-click functionality is easy to master - though it has a nifty feature that you must learn.
Choosing the right bedside cot
A bedside crib provides your child with the security and protection they need to sleep during an extended trip. These are great for family vacations, holidays and other adventures. The process of choosing the right one will be contingent on your personal requirements. You must consider the kind of travel crib you want along with its weight and dimensions. You'll want to make sure that the cot will fit inside your car along with all of the other baby equipment you'll need to bring along.
A bedside cot must be easy to transport and install. They're typically small and lightweight which makes them the ideal option for traveling with a newborn or a young child. They are also simple to put together. They're usually equipped with a mattress that's perfect for the size of the crib, thereby helping your little one have a restful night's sleep.
Some of these travel cribs have added accessories, making them a great option for children and babies. For example, some have an area for changing that is attached to the side of the cot and others have an extra bassinet for newborns. Some are also equipped with wheels, making them easier to move around.
Select a travel cot that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will prevent it from falling over and spilling your baby one and their stuffed toys to the floor. It's also a good idea to choose a cot that has mesh sides for ventilation to keep your baby comfy and content.
Before buying a travel cot, it's a good idea examine the folding mechanism. There is no need for a bed that a child could open easily, as this could cause suffocation. The most secure models have locks that are impossible to manipulate by the child. Some models even have buckles to ensure safety and stability.
Bassinets
A portable bassinet or bedside travel cot is a sleeping area for babies that lets parents monitor their children. They are perfect for babies between 6 and 6 months old and can be a huge help during flights, as they are lightweight, small and take up little space. cots4tots can be easily stored when not being used.
Aside from the ease of storing and assembly, bassinets are made to be safe and comfortable for infants to sleep in. The majority of bassinets have mesh walls that allow air to circulate and decrease the risk suffocation. They also have a carry-bag and are made from materials that are safe and easy to clean.
There are a variety of bassinet models available. You should choose one that fits your baby's size and age. It is also important to look over the reviews and features of any bassinet you're considering buying before making a choice.
You might want to think about 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 even have an entertainment centre that can play music, light and vibrations.
Many airlines offer bassinets on long-haul flights. However, this could differ based on the type of aircraft and seat availability. For example, Lufthansa offers bassinets on its long-haul fleet, and you can reserve one upon booking for a fee. Etihad Airways also offers bassinets on its long-haul flights, for babies weighing up to 24 pounds. You can request them at the time of booking, or later by using the Manage My Booking feature on the airline website.
Southwest does not offer bassinets onboard its flights, and Icelandair only has bassinets on certain of its long-haul routes. Iberia is among the airlines that offer bassinets. You can request a bassinet at the time of booking, or by contacting Iberia's reservation office.
Drop-side cots
If you're in search of an upholstered bedside cot that can be used from birth, take a look at the options available. These cots for bassinets are light and come with a carry case. They are ideal for travel or staying at friends or relatives' houses. Many of these cots feature adjustable height settings and tilting to an incline position which is perfect for babies with reflux.
A bedside cot can make it easier to reach your baby in case they awake during the night. This is crucial for breastfeeding mothers, as it can encourage more frequent and regular feedings that are essential for a healthy milk production. Some cots have a drop-down option and some even have an incline, making it easier to raise your child to feed them and provide comfort without needing to get up from the bed.
While a travel cot designed for use in bed is a good idea however, you should use it with care. Cots with moving parts like the drop-side, should be assembled with care and regularly checked to ensure that they function correctly. Older cots or secondhand ones can have loose slats broken filler bars, or rails that create dangerous gaps that your child could fall through or get trapped in. Also, some cots may be older and may not comply with current Australian safety standards.
If you decide to purchase a secondhand cot, be sure to check the manufacturer's website for instructions before you begin assembling it. Choose a cot that is constructed to the most recent safety standards.
We recommend the Chicco Next2me side sleeping crib as a top alternative. It is incredibly simple to put together (one of the quickest in our MFM tests) and has neat zips that ensure everything is secure. It has multiple height settings and an incline to prevent reflux, and is compact when folded up for storage.
Travel cots
Travel cots are a great option for parents who require a secure, comfortable and safe place to put their child down while away or at home. Easy to install fold, store and fold they're great for sleepovers or during holidays. Some models include a rocking mechanism or changing mat to help you 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, check the age suitability since many are suitable for babies as young as newborn (look out for ones that have an integrated bassinet) and up to around three years.
One of the most important things to look for in a quality travel cot is the quality of its mattress. It must be firm, padded and waterproof cover. This is also true for the base of the cot, which should be solid and have non-slip feet that keep it from moving when used or storage.
A travel cot should also come with a mesh window that can keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, and a bag to carry to make it easier to transport. There are models that also have a playpen, or even come with a musical mobile. This will keep your child engaged and entertained.
If you're looking for a fast and simple way to create a safe sleeping space for your infant or toddler, an upholstered bedside cot might be just what you need. The best ones fold up and down quickly, and can easily fit into a carry bag for easy transport. They're generally light too, making them ideal for travel, whether on a plane or yacht! If you're not sure which model to choose make sure you research the available options and speak with other parents for their recommendations. A bedside travel crib is a great investment that will be a blessing to your child during the beginning of their life.