In anticipation of a happy event - the birth of a child - future parents have to think about a lot of things the baby needs. Choosing a sleeping place is one of the primary tasks that each couple solves in their own way.
Since time immemorial, our ancestors have used the cradle as the only possible and most suitable place for a child to sleep. Currently, there is a trend of “returning to the past”: many parents choose a hanging cradle instead of a classic crib.
Features of the hanging cradle
Newborn babies have an increased need for sleep—some sleep up to 13 hours a day. Therefore, arranging a comfortable and safe place for the child for this purpose is the primary task of parents, which a hanging cradle can help with.
A cradle is often a rocking box bed suspended from the ceiling. It is small in size, so it is intended for rocking babies only up to six months, while the baby is not yet able to sit.
Benefits of use
The choice in favor of a cradle is largely justified from the point of view of the child’s comfort - the conditions of some weightlessness that the cradle creates are more familiar to a newborn, it creates a feeling of the same security and safety as the mother’s belly. According to experts, the cradle allows you to smooth out the sharpness of the child’s transition from one world to another, preventing additional stress from arising.
Pros of use:
- a convenient and easy way to rock a baby;
- no load on the back (as opposed to being cradled in the arms);
- small design dimensions;
- mobility;
- ease.
It has been tested in practice that children in a cradle fall asleep much better and have healthier sleep. The small space of the box creates the illusion of being in the mother's womb; the baby feels safe, so he sleeps more peacefully. In addition, the mother no longer has to constantly rock the baby in her arms, which gives her more free time and the opportunity to do other things.
The cradle can be installed in any convenient place in the house: due to its small size, it will not take up much space, and the “airiness” of the design will not give the impression of a cluttered space. For small apartments it may be the best option. If necessary, it will not be difficult to move the cradle to another room - the light weight of the box allows this to be done.
Flaws
If during the manufacture of the cradle all safety standards were observed and reliable materials were used for the construction, then there are no shortcomings as such. The only disadvantage of any cradle model is the short period of use.
Most cribs are designed for newborns, so after the baby begins to sit up (about six months), the sleeping place will have to be changed and purchased a more spacious stationary crib.
Features and Benefits
Of course, a swing for newborns is not an essential item and a child can easily do without them if the family’s financial situation, living space or any other reasons do not allow them to purchase the product. Many mothers and fathers are tormented by the same question: is this device necessary at all? It is worth noting that swings are primarily needed by adults, and only then by children. After all, parents will have their hands free for a certain period of time, and they will be able to do all the necessary things around the house or put themselves in order.
The child also enjoys rocking, calms down and can even doze off. And if parents take the choice of a swing seriously and choose a cradle that has the correct anatomical shape, then it will certainly contribute to the active development of the baby and will not bring unpleasant consequences.
The advantages of swings also lie in the fact that they have a beneficial effect on the mental and physical state of the newborn. The child quickly calms down, stops crying, his vestibular apparatus develops, and his muscles develop.
Types of cradles
The offered range of cradles is not limited to the standard model. Modern shabbies are improved examples of their distant ancestors.
Classical
The classic version is the most common. The box is suspended on cables from the ceiling or mounted on the wall. Sometimes parents worry about the safety of the child and therefore refuse this model, which is quite natural, although in vain - the designs are initially designed to withstand loads that greatly exceed the weight of even a very well-fed baby.
A positive feature of such a cradle is the ease of motion sickness. You don’t need to constantly stand nearby: one touch with your hand and the cradle will continue to swing by inertia for a long time.
Bassinet swing
Essentially, these are small swings mounted on stands. The cradle has built-in seat belts, which is very important, since the sides of the box are small. In many models, the backrest is adjustable to the position of the body, which allows the child not only to lie down, but also to sit. They are recommended for use for children whose weight does not exceed 18 kg.
A swing cradle is an excellent way to calm a child, which has a positive effect on coordination of movements and the vestibular system.
Automatic
An automatic cradle is an electronic swing cradle. It comes with a remote control, a night light, and a soothing selection of music. This model will save parents a lot of free time, but it is still not recommended to sleep in it for a long time - it is better to use it exclusively to calm and lull the baby.
This model is best used as an additional sleeping place to the crib.
Hanging cradle for crib
This is an indispensable item for those who already have a stationary crib. As a rule, it is almost impossible to pump it - only roll it if it has wheels. And if they are not there, a fabric cradle will help out - it is easily attached to the sides of the crib and just as easily removed when there is no longer a need for it.
Cradle for newborns
A cradle for newborns is a small bed designed to provide comfort and peace of sleep during the first months of life. Such furniture allows young parents to rock their child to sleep without holding him in their hands, thus teaching the baby to be “independent.”
Cradle for newborns
Basically, such products consist of two main components - a berth and a frame. The shape, style and shade of the bed are of secondary importance and are important only for interior decor.
Cots for children
Related article:
Crib bumpers for newborns : photos, why they are needed, types, sizes, fabric, filling, fastening methods, additional details, recommendations for choosing, how to make them yourself - in the publication.
Types of hanging cradle frames
The cradle box can be made of various materials. Manufacturers offer several types of cradle frames.
Solid braided
This frame is small in size and compact. It is a solid wicker basket of oval or rectangular shape. For its production, natural materials are used that do not cause allergic reactions, which is an undoubted advantage of a wicker cradle for newborns.
Fabric
Made from durable fabrics such as environmental polyester, eco-leather and others used in the production of baby strollers. Internal upholstery - natural cotton or linen. A less dense fabric type of frame is most often used for swing cradles, baby carriers and hanging cribs, or as an addition to a wooden or metal frame.
Metal
High strength steel is used in the production of the metal frame. To facilitate the construction, only the frame of the box remains metal, and the bottom and walls are covered with a fabric cover.
The most common option is a combination of a metal frame, fabric upholstery and a wooden bottom.
Wooden or knitted
The wooden frame can be rectangular or round, made of either wood or plywood. The bottom is made of plywood (as recommended by doctors) or thick fabric (for example, burlap, jeans). For those who love and know how to craft, making such a bed for your child yourself will not be difficult.
You can also make a knitted frame with your own hands - it won’t take much time for a good needlewoman. The main thing when knitting is to remember the required strength of the future product. You can knit it with knitting needles, thick crochet or use the macrame technique. The latter option looks the most elegant, and this technique allows you to use thick and durable threads without compromising the attractiveness of the product.
Wicker options for baby cradles
If you know how to weave from twigs, then you can create something like a basket. Pay special attention to the top part. This is where you will attach the carabiners so you can secure the rope to them.
You need to put a mattress in such a basket. Place the fabric borders that need to be wrapped around the outside of this basket.
Secure the straps or rope and hang this cradle in place.
If you have a strong frame and are familiar with the art of macrame, then you can weave such a beautiful cradle.
You can also weave such a wonderful cradle using macrame.
To do this, braid the sides, but it is better to make them denser. Put down the mattress. This is such a beautiful thing.
Here's how to make a cradle a little differently. First you need to knock down a frame of four strong slats. This will be the top of the crib. Make another one like this.
Now tie the threads to the top bar and braid the sides. Then create the bottom. Hang the cradle.
You can make a folding cradle. To create it, knock down a wooden frame from durable slats. On the sides they will be in the form of a cross. Braid the workpiece using macrame patterns.
You can even make a cradle from twine. The main thing is to take a suitable frame. Also decorate it using the macrame technique. You can use simple nodes for this. You will need to weave the threads in a checkerboard pattern to form diamonds.
The next master class will show how to make a cradle using the weaving method, using paper for this.
Criterias of choice
All parents want their child to have a beautiful and comfortable sleeping place. The choice of a cradle is based on several basic criteria that need to be taken into account before purchasing.
Quality of mechanisms
Design safety is one of the most important criteria. Before purchasing, you must make sure that all fasteners and the box itself are secure. To strengthen the mechanism, double fasteners or a crossbar are often used.
A standard single fastening mechanism should consist of:
- hook;
- elastic spring;
- connecting belt (hook with spring);
- carbine;
- rings (for fastening cables).
If all the materials that were used in the production of fasteners are certified and comply with accepted safety standards, then even a classic single fastener will withstand the weight of a child.
Dimensions
Be sure to pay attention to the height of the sides. It should not be less than 30-40 cm. Babies often turn over in their sleep, and if the height is not enough, there is a possibility of falling out of the cradle.
When choosing a cradle, it is necessary to take into account the age and size of the child - some models are intended exclusively for infants, others are recommended for children from six months.
Additional functions
Some types of cradles are equipped with a mechanism for changing the position of the backrest, changing the height of the box above the floor, and seat belts; Some models have removable sides, handles for carrying the basket, and a removable inner fabric cover (for easy washing).
Certain crib designs can be used as a child seat in a car. The main thing is not to forget to securely fasten it.
Material for making the cradle
Material safety is another important criterion. It is better to give preference to natural ones, but if you still purchase a cradle made from an artificial one, you need to find out whether the child will be allergic to it.
The cradle should have a smooth, flat bottom and sides without any protruding parts that could cause injury. The interior upholstery is preferably cotton or linen, preferably soft, with environmentally friendly filling.
Sweet nest
The process of creating a nest for a cradle with your own hands can be followed using the example of a master class. For this we will need cotton fabric measuring 80*100 cm, you can take two pieces of one or more colors, openwork lace and satin ribbon about three meters, holofiber or padding polyester.
First, we make a pattern. It is perfect for kids. It can also be downloaded from the link below.
Article on the topic: Do-it-yourself clothes for a baby doll with knitting needles: diagrams with a description of the work
Then we baste two pieces of fabric and lace. The front side should face inward. We begin to stitch and overcast the fabric. You need to make very neat seams for beautiful edges. Next, turn the nest inside out and steam the edges.
Stepping back two cm from the edge, sew the seam. We'll need it a little later.
We cut out and round the edges a holofiber measuring 70*35 or use padding polyester. Now we fill the nest with it and make a couple of horizontal seams. Also, don’t forget to stitch the side of the cocoon.
Then we stretch the satin ribbon. To make this job easier, use a pin.
We stuff the sides and hand stitch the open edges.
We tie a bow with a satin ribbon. The wider you take the ribbon, the larger the bow you will get.
Also, do not forget that when there are large edges left, there is no need to trim them. Thanks to them, you can adjust the length of the nest.
We sewed this cute nest for a newborn ourselves. As you can see, there was nothing complicated in the sewing process. The result is simply impressive! And the edges of the nest can be crocheted.
Useful accessories
A canopy suspended above the cradle creates a cozy “house” and gives a feeling of security and peace. Thanks to it, a bright sunny day or light in the room will not prevent the child from sleeping peacefully.
Toys hanging on an arc built into the cradle will not leave any baby indifferent. In some models, they can move in a circle to soothing music, which helps the child fall asleep quickly. For those who are afraid of the dark, there are small star night lights.
Many modern electronic cradles have remote control using a remote control.
Review of beds for motion sickness
As mentioned above, baby rockers can be divided into mechanical devices and electronic ones.
Mechanical rocking cradles swing either from the movement of the baby himself or from the influence of an adult. They can be supplemented with bright educational toys suspended above the child.
Cribs with a pendulum must have a swing amplitude lock so that you don’t accidentally swing the cradle more than necessary!
This type of cradles is considered the most reliable, since it does not contain electronic elements that can fail. They require the constant presence of an adult, so the child will always be under control. This will eliminate any possibility of the baby falling out of the rocking chair.
Elegant rocking cradle
Modern electronic rocking chairs are driven by a special mechanism that is triggered by the baby's cry. The rocking is complemented by the playback of children's melodies, and in some models it is possible to record the soothing voice of the mother on a voice recorder.
Many of them have several speeds for rocking the baby. There are types of electronic rocking chairs that can simply be set for a certain time (15, 30 minutes), after which the baby’s rocking process is completed. These devices operate on batteries or mains power, depending on the specific model.
Review of the best models
The range of bassinets offered by manufacturers is varied, but the following five models have received the most positive customer reviews.
Virinea
The sleeping place is a one-piece wicker basket made by hand from willow wicker with steel fastenings. Available in two sizes: standard and extended. Can be made to order. This is a completely natural classic version of the cradle that does not require special care. Suitable for babies up to six months.
Pali Prestige
Model from Italian manufacturers. The box can be plastic, wicker or made of beech. Fastening is carried out using high-strength belts. There is a wide range of not only hanging, but also floor-standing cradles.
Vanilla
This cradle is based on a high-strength steel frame, covered with a removable fabric cover (100% cotton) with side pockets. The bottom of the cradle is made of wood. The set includes a children's mattress.
Frame
It is a wooden frame with a cotton cover. This model provides for height adjustment of the sides: for infants - 30 cm, for older children - 40 cm. The bottom is made of plywood. A mattress with eco-friendly filling is included in the package.
Teddy
The wicker frame is made from willow vine. The advantage of this model is the mounting posts that come with the cradle; you do not need to purchase them separately.
“Teddy” models are also textile sets for all types of cribs, which have gained great popularity due to the quality of the finished products and the selection of natural fabrics for sewing. They are soft and cozy, and look simply charming in appearance.
Nomination: best side crib
Add-on cradles are relevant for those parents who plan to sleep in the same room in close proximity to the child. Add-on cribs have a removable side and are adjustable in height, so you can raise or lower the bottom to the same level as the parent's bed, combining them into one plane. This allows you to get up less often to see your baby at night, make it easier to organize nighttime breastfeeding, and generally worry less about your baby.
Chicco Next2me - the ideal cradle for co-sleeping and more
Laconic and weightless, the Chicco Next2me cradle will fit perfectly into a modern interior and will certainly charm parents who prefer simplicity and minimalism. The cradle is lightweight, made of high quality plastic, no bulky parts. The fabric elements are removable and easy to clean. The bottom is height adjustable at six levels. The sleeping area is roomy: 50 by 80 cm, mattress included. The side wall can be unfastened with a zipper and has a built-in mosquito net for easy monitoring of the baby.
Chicco Next2me is ideal as an additional cot, since, unlike many other models, it has a system of attachment to the main bed (with straps). There are wheels with locks. The upholstery is removed. If necessary, the sleeping place can be folded to dimensions of 91 by 15 cm and placed in a carrying bag, which is very convenient for transportation. There is even an adjustable bottom tilt. Megafunctional cradle of premium quality! 9 delicate colors.
Cons: There is no lower basket, hood or runners, but not all parents and children require them.
Estimated price: 12000-14000 rub.
Reviews of the Chicco Next2me cradle
This model is 200% justified if the mother is nursing and practices co-sleeping. Everything in it is very reliable and thought out to the smallest detail so that both mother and baby feel good. The disadvantages include the fact that this cradle cannot be used to attach a mobile phone on a standard arch and most other “bedside” gadgets. Well, the price, of course, is not affordable for everyone. However, if you consider that the mattress and sides are already included in the kit, the price no longer seems so high.
Zibos Ala - the strongest and most technologically advanced cradle
Another option for a compact side crib that can serve as an attractive alternative to the Chicco Next2me above. In terms of functionality, the Zibos cradle is in some ways slightly inferior to Chico, but in some ways it is seriously superior to it. So, the bottom height is adjustable not in 6, but in five positions. There are 7 bright upholstery colors to choose from (blue, red, yellow, etc.). Otherwise, this cradle repeats all the characteristics of its more expensive sister: it has fixed wheels, an adjustable bottom, a mattress, a removable wall with a mosquito net, carrying and the ability to fold. There is also a system for “fastening” a child’s bed to an adult’s. But Zibos Ala also has interesting bonuses:
- supports a weight of 150 kg (that's not a typo!) thanks to the frame with double tubes;
- The set includes an anti-colic pillow and a mosquito net;
- there are runners for motion sickness;
- if desired, you can purchase a transformation mechanism from the same company and turn the cradle into a rocking chair and even a rocking chair for an adult (that’s what such a strong structure is for!);
- There are two pockets at the bottom for storing small items;
- The price of the product is slightly lower in comparison with analogues.
Estimated price: 9000-10000 rub.
Reviews of the cradle Zibos Ala
The innovation of the design, the precise operation of all mechanisms and, at the same time, the amazing functionality of the model makes owners say only good things about it (if not sing its praises). It is difficult to attach arches and mobiles to it, but this is perhaps the only small feature of this model. We recommend it as a profitable investment in the health of the child and the peace of mind of parents.
Simplicity 3060 - the most popular side cradle
This cradle model has earned the greatest approval from parents as the most beautiful, comfortable and functional. Strictly speaking, this is a universal cradle that can be used with equal success both as an attached one and as a free-standing one. The crib swings using runners, but can be placed on wheels. The height is adjustable, the side is removable for convenient use as an attached option. There is a gentle vibration function, a night light and a music unit with lullabies, hanging toys, and a control panel. The mattress is also included. The cradle is equipped with a hood. We can say that it has everything necessary for the most comfortable pastime of the child and even more.
The product is equipped with a long skirt, which, on the one hand, hides everything unnecessary and protects the contents of the basket from dust, on the other, complicates access to it. A similar model 3050 is equipped with a short skirt. It should be borne in mind that most Simplicity models have low sides - only 24 cm.
Estimated price: 8000-9000 rub.
Reviews of Simplicity 3060
The general impression of the model based on reviews is that it was money well spent! A wide range of equipment and taking into account most of the nuances associated with the baby’s sleep and rest make this cradle the best in its category.
The downside is that the product has only two colors (blue and beige). In addition, in reviews of the Simplicity 3060 cradle you can find information that the mattress is not of very high quality. There is also dissatisfaction with the fact that the mobile is installed on a rigid base, which makes it difficult to put the baby in and out (but the mobile can be turned to the side). Some people don’t like the abundance of ruffles, but this is a matter of taste. In general, Simplicity cradles are the leaders in this market, and models 3060 and 3050 have received the largest number of parents' sympathy.
DIY making
There are many options for making your own sleeping bed for a newborn. For example, you can simply hang a stroller box from the ceiling or make a cradle from a hoop and fabric.
Required tools and materials
All the tools and related materials necessary for the job can be purchased at any hardware store.
You will need:
- 4 boards of small thickness (1-2 cm);
- hacksaw for woodworking;
- screwdriver;
- self-tapping screws;
- drill and drill bits;
- cables, rope or any strong rope;
- any fabric of increased strength.
Procedure:
- Make a drawing of the future sleeping place: two side walls and two end walls. The length of the sides should correspond to the intended size of the cradle, and the height should be at least 30 cm. The end walls should be shaped like an inverted trapezoid, its smaller base should be equal to the expected width of the cradle. The “openness” of the cradle will depend on the length of the larger base of the trapezoid, therefore, to prevent the child from falling out of the crib, you should not make it too large.
- Drill holes in the upper corners of the sides for hanging the future cradle. In this case, you need to try to arrange them symmetrically to avoid distortion.
- Drill holes along the bottom line of the side and end parts every three centimeters.
- Fasten all sides of the box together with self-tapping screws.
- Any durable fabric that can withstand loads is suitable for making the bottom. You need to cut out the bottom from it by simply tracing the lower part of the resulting structure on the canvas.
- Along the perimeter of the fabric bottom, stepping back about two centimeters from the edge, make holes so that they coincide with the holes on the box. Wrap or overcast the resulting loops by hand.
- Attach the bottom to the box using a strong rope (through the holes).
- Pull the cables into the holes intended for hanging the cradle.
- Secure the resulting product in the selected location.
Nomination: best wooden cradles
Natural, high-quality wood is an ideal material for any children's furniture. Wood has a classic beauty, it is warm, environmentally friendly and durable. Wooden cradles are very diverse, and choosing the best is quite difficult. The editors of Mamelle.ru considered the following models worthy of your attention:
Bambolina Love - Italian classic for little princes and princesses
The Italian brand is distinguished by its magnificent design and impeccable quality of wood processing. Models Bambolina Love, Candy, Bebe, Artist are functionally absolutely identical, only slightly different in the appearance of the headboard and the presence of a drawer in the first one. Bambolin's cradles are mini-cribs on runners (+ wheels). The wheels are rubberized, self-centering, roll very easily and do not scratch the floor when moving.
You might not notice it right away, but the Love carrycot has a built-in drawer for baby supplies in the bottom. Optimal sleeping area size: 83×42 cm. The set does not include bedding; they (including the mattress) must be purchased separately. However, the choice of mattresses of these sizes is quite wide, and the price starts from 1000 rubles.
Estimated price: 12000-14000 rub.
Reviews of Bambolina cradles
All parents agree that there is simply nothing to complain about with this cradle. It fascinates with its classic ideality and coziness. And the highest quality allows it to be used for more than one generation of children. Perhaps the price is not affordable for everyone, but this is the price to pay for the pleasure of comfortable and long-term use.
Gandylyan Lily - a solid domestic classic with a pendulum
If you are looking for a classic cradle in the form of a miniature crib with rocking motion, the Lily Model from the Russian manufacturer Gandylyan is perfect. The material of the product is Caucasian beech, the coating is safe water-based varnish. The sleeping place is relatively narrow, but long - 90x43 cm. Mothers who have tested this cradle in action claim that it will suit a medium-sized child up to 8 months.
The model is not suitable as an additional crib, because... its side cannot be lowered or removed, and the height of the bottom is not adjustable. At the same time, it is equipped with a transverse pendulum - a useful feature for many mothers and children. Pleasant shades of natural wood - 8 options. If you do not require any special design or additional options, then the Gandylyan Lily crib is the best option in terms of price-quality ratio.
Estimated price: 7100-8300 rub.
Reviews of the cradle Gandylyan Lily
The reviews are entirely positive. Parents like the quality of this cradle, the wood processing, and the compactness. The complaints concern only the quality of the varnish coating - if used indelicately, the varnish can easily be scratched. Parents would also like to see the mattress included, so as not to bother choosing it separately.
Cradle Micuna Smart Fresh MO-1456 - an original crib for the little ones
The delightful, airy Mikuna cradle has an oval shape and is made of high-quality solid beech wood, coated with water-based varnish. The size of the sleeping place is not quite standard: 79X52 cm, that is, a little shorter and wider than a standard cradle. The walls are made of fabric (in some versions, mesh), which allows fresh air to circulate freely inside. The crib is low, not adjustable in height, but has fairly high sides - 47 cm, so the baby is guaranteed to be protected from falling out of it. 6 wheels with locks make it easy to move the product across the floor. Dimensions allow you to freely move the cradle around the house and roll it out onto the balcony.
The package includes a set of bed linen (polyurethane mattress, pillow, blanket, duvet cover, sheet). There are 8 delicate colors to choose from. Another plus is that you can buy additional bed linen and a mattress cover. Interestingly, the sheet can be zipped together with a blanket to create a cozy sleeping envelope.
Estimated price: 20,000-23,000 rub.
Reviews of the cradle Micuna Smart Fresh MO-1456
Let’s be honest, there are practically no reviews on Russian-language sites about this far from cheap product. But there are active discussions about the pros and cons of such an unusual sleeping bed for a newborn. The advantages include natural materials, stylish design, compactness, ease of use, breathability and a wide range of equipment. The disadvantages include the small height (this is especially true if there are older children and pets in the house) and the impossibility of adjusting it. There are concerns about the completely transparent mesh walls - will the baby be cool? In general, the Mikuna cradle can be a wonderful nest for a baby up to 2-4 months, but then it will have to be replaced with a larger bed.
Where is the best place to install
The best place for a newborn baby is next to his mother. Therefore, installing a cradle next to the mother’s sleeping place, especially at first, is the most reasonable solution.
A little later, after 6-7 months, you can begin to teach the child to sleep in his own room. But in this case, the cradle will no longer be useful - the child will need a full-fledged crib.
Disadvantages of using a cradle
Despite all the advantages of using a cradle, this design is not without its disadvantages:
- High cost for modern models.
- The need to carefully monitor the condition of the grooves, runners and fasteners.
- A cradle for newborns has limited use due to the rapid growth of infants.
A significant disadvantage for simple cradle models is the need to constantly rock the cradle manually.
Hanging rockers
Today, there are two options for installing hanging cradles:
- The first model is mounted to the ceiling. Structures of this type require particularly strong fastenings and a preliminary assessment of the condition of the ceiling beams. Restraining cables must support both the weight of the laundry basket and the weight of the child. Be sure to evaluate the tensile strength of the cable when swinging.
- The second group of cradles is designed on a different principle. The production technology provides for the presence of a frame-rack in the form of a tripod. Retaining cables are attached in the center of the tripod, with the other end mounted to the edges of the cradle.
The second option is more popular and practical for young parents. Using a hanging cradle on a stand does not require attachment to the ceiling; the stand is made taking into account the distribution of the total weight.
Electronic cradles
Regardless of shape and size, all models in this range have a compact motor. The engine drives the pendulum and swings the cradle in a single mode. Such designs require careful selection and subsequent practical care.
