A Bedside Travel Cot From Red Kite
This budget-friendly model from Red Kite combines the functionality of a bassinet and cot into one portable package. It comes with a newborn insert which raises the baby to reduce back strain. This is perfect for those who have had C-sections.
It's easy to put into the bag for travel, and it pops up instantly without assembly. The pull-and-click feature is easy to master, though it does have a knack that you need to memorise.
Selecting a cot for your bed
A bedside cot can provide a safe and secure space for your baby to sleep and provide them with the comfort they require on an extended journey. They're perfect for holidays and family outings as well as other adventures. The right one for you will depend on the needs you have. A few things to consider are the type of cot you're looking for as well as the weight and the dimensions. You should also be aware of whether the cot will fit in your car, particularly when you consider all the other baby equipment you'll have to bring along for the trip.
A bedside cot must be portable and simple to install. They are usually lightweight and compact, making them the perfect choice for travelling with a baby or young child. They are also easy to put together. These beds are usually equipped with a mattress that fits perfectly inside the crib. This helps your child get a restful night's sleep.
Some of these travel cots come with added accessories that make them an ideal option for children and babies. For example, some have a changing station attached to the side of the cot and others have an extra bassinet for infants. Some are also equipped with wheels, making them easier to move.
Pick a cot that is sturdy enough for your baby. This will prevent it from falling over and spilling the baby and their stuffed toy on the floor. You should also choose a cot with mesh sides to allow for ventilation. This will keep your child comfy and happy.
Before purchasing a travel cot it is a good idea to examine the folding mechanism. It's not necessary to have a bed that a child could open easily and could lead to suffocation. The best models include a locking mechanism that cannot be manipulated by a young child. Some models even have buckles to ensure safety and stability.
Bassinets
A bassinet or bedside cot is an infant sleep space that can be moved around that allows parents to keep an eye on their babies. They are suitable for infants between 6 and 6 months old and can be a great help during flights, as they are lightweight, small and require little space. They can be easily stored when not in use.
In foldable bedside crib to the ease of storage and assembly, bassinets are made to be safe and comfortable for infants to sleep in. Most are fitted with mesh walls that allow air to circulate freely and reduce the risk of suffocation. They are usually supplied with a carrying bag and are made out of materials that are nontoxic and easy to clean.
There are a variety of bassinets available, but you should look for one that is suited to your baby's size and age. It's important to read reviews and the features of any bassinet you are considering prior to making a purchase.
You should consider a cot that could be converted into an infant bassinet. They are simpler to set up and take-down than regular travel cots and are suitable for infants up to toddlers. Some come with a toy bar, while others come with an entertainment center that plays music lights, vibrations, and lights.
Many airlines offer bassinets for long-haul flights. However, this can differ depending on the type of aircraft used 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 to infants up to 24 pounds. They can be requested at the time of booking or after by using the Manage My Booking feature on the airline's website.
Icelandair does not have bassinets available on its flights. However, there are other airlines that do offer bassinets, like Iberia. You can request bassinets at the time of booking, or by calling the reservation department at Iberia.
Drop-side Cots
If you're in search of a bedside travel cot that can be used from birth, check out the options available. These bassinet-style cots come with a carry case and are light making them ideal for travelling or sleepovers at the homes of friends or relatives home. These cots also come with height adjustment options, and some can be tilted to an incline for babies who have reflux.
The main benefit of a cot that is placed near to the bed is that it makes it much easier for you to reach your baby whenever they awake in the middle of the night. This is particularly important if you're breastfeeding, as the close proximity can aid in promoting more frequent and consistent feeding, which is key for healthy milk production. Some cots come with a drop-down feature and some have an incline option that allows you to easily get your baby up to feed and comfort without stepping out of bed.
It's important to remember that although a bedside cot can be useful however, it must be handled with care. Cots that have movable parts such as the drop-side, need to be constructed with care and inspected regularly to ensure that they function correctly. Older or second-hand cots could have broken rails, loose slats or broken filler bars that can create dangerous gaps where your child can fall or get trapped. Some cots may be older and not meet current Australian safety standards.
Before putting together an old crib, make sure you read the instructions on the manufacturer's site. Choose a new cot built to the latest safety standards.
If you are looking for a high-quality option, we recommend the Chicco Next2me Side Sleeping Crib. This crib is very easy to put together (one of the quickest in our MFM tests) and comes with neat zips to keep everything safe. It has multiple height settings and an incline to prevent reflux, and it is compact when folded to store.
Travel cots
Travel cots are ideal for parents who need a safe, comfortable place to put their child down while away or at home. They are easy to fold and store, and then set up. They're perfect for sleepovers and holidays. Some models come with the ability to rock or change your baby's mats to help to calm your baby or change them before bedtime.
If large bedside crib looking for a new travel cot, make sure that it's rated according to the British Standard Institution (BSI) and made with your baby's needs in mind. Also, look into the age-appropriateness of the product as many are suitable for infants from newborn (look out for ones with a built-in bassinet) and up to around three years old.
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 have a waterproof cover. The base of the cot must be sturdy and have non-slip feet to stop it from moving when in storage or use.
A travel cot should also include a mesh window to keep an eye on your baby while they sleep, and a bag to carry for easy transport. You can also find models that double up as a playpen or an electronic mobile to keep your baby entertained and engaged.
If you're looking for an efficient and simple method to create a safe sleeping area for your infant or toddler, then a bedside travel cot may be the ideal solution. The top ones fold up and down quickly, and can easily fit into a carry bag for easy transportation. They're usually fairly lightweight too making them suitable to travel with, even on a plane or yacht! If you're unsure about the right model be sure to research the available options and speak with other parents to get their recommendations. A bedside crib is a fantastic investment that will prove invaluable to your child during the first few months of their life.