Purchasing the proper portable crib ease tensions on trips.
Portable cribs can be found at many major toy, children, or baby specialty stores. Check that all safety recommendations have been met and look at the product in the store to make sure that all parts are present and complete. Some stores will still stock recalled items, so it is up to you to do the research to make sure that your baby is getting the safest crib possible. When buying a new portable crib keep the following in mind.
Portable playpens or play yards are much larger than portable cribs and provide an area for your baby to safely play, not sleep. Only portable cribs should be used for a sleeping area. A portable crib provides a comfortable and safe place for your baby to sleep. They are not as large as a regular sized crib and are not made as sturdy. Portable cribs should not be used on a permanent basis.
Family members and friends may not have a crib for you to use so you must be prepared with your own. Some hotels offer portable cribs but they can be out-dated and might not meet current safety regulations. If you will be using a hotel provided crib, be sure to call ahead of time and find out the make, model, and year of the crib so that you can do your own research. Portable cribs come in many different sizes and colors and can even be bought to coordinate with other items such as strollers or swings. Some models, when folded down, provide handles and wheels to make them easy to tote around. Some models even offer areas in which to change the baby.
When purchasing a new portable crib, safety should always be a very important issue. Always check to see if the make and model you are interested in has been recalled and if so, are there parts provided by the manufacturer to remedy this. Make sure that the top rail will be at least 22 inches from the ground to prevent the baby from escaping. All webbing or mesh should be tightly weaved to prevent fingers, toes, buttons, or snaps from becoming caught. Check that all hinges are strong and can be locked tight. Mattress comfort is also an important issue and different models have different comfort levels. Try not to put too much extra bedding, such as blankets, comforters, or pillows in the crib. Too much bedding can actually increase the risk of suffocation for small babies. Remember to check on your baby often and above all relax and have a great trip.
