Having a second baby can seem overwhelming, but what if you didn’t need to buy two cribs? With the help of sidecar cribs, parents of two children can create a cozy and cost-effective sleeping space for both kids.
Sidecar cribs allow one full-sized crib to be attached to another full-sized bed — reducing the money and stress associated with buying multiple beds for different babies.
Whether you’re looking to save money or simply want a creative way to accommodate two children in one room, below are the steps. Always make sure to read the instructions of your crib carefully before attempting to sidecar it.
In this post, we’ll explore how to sidecar crib system at home so that you and your little ones can rest easy knowing everyone has their own comfortable place to sleep!
What Will You Need?
Before you get started, make sure to have the following items on hand:
- Two full-sized cribs
- Mattress pad
- Crib bumpers
- Sheets (2 sets)
- Any other bedding items you plan to use, such as a quilt or comforter.
Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to begin setting up the sidecar crib.
10 Easy Steps on How to Sidecar Crib
Step 1: Attach the Cribs Together
The first step in side carrying your cribs is to attach them to each other so they form one sleeping space. You’ll need two full-sized cribs with identical measurements for this process.
If either crib has a drop-side rail feature, ensure both do before proceeding. Place the two cribs parallel to each other and adjust the lengths of their mattress boards until they align. Once everything is lined up, secure them together using strong screws to hold the cribs in place.
Step 2: Place Mattress Pad and Bumpers
After the cribs are connected, it’s time to add a mattress pad and bumpers for extra comfort. Place the mattress pad over both mattresses and secure the bumpers onto each side of the cribs.
If you’re using one large piece of fabric to cover both mattresses, make sure it is wide enough to fit over both beds and that any ties or elastic bands are tied securely.
Step 3: Add Sheets & Bed Décor
Now that your sidecar combination is complete, it’s time to dress it up! Add sheets to both mattresses (two sets if you have two children) and any other bed décor, like a quilt or comforter. Make sure all bedding items are securely fastened and in place before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Adjust Height & Secure Cribs
Once your sidecar crib is dressed up and ready for use, it’s time to adjust the height of both cribs to ensure they are level with each other. Use adjustable screws or bolts on either side of the cribs to make this happen. Once the heights are set, add an extra layer of security by locking clamps around both cribs’ frames. This will help keep them together during sleep transitions.
Step 5: Secure Mattresses & Bed Décor
Now that your sidecar crib is set up and secure, it’s important to ensure any loose bedding items are secure. Ensure all mattress pads and bumpers are secured using straps or ties to keep them from shifting during sleep.
Also, check that sheets and other bed decor items are tucked in securely so they don’t become a hazard for the babies.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
The last step in creating a cozy sidecar crib system is to add some finishing touches. Place interesting wall art above the beds or hang colorful curtains over the sides of both cribs for additional privacy and protection from outside light sources.
You can also add a few toys for your babies to explore and play with during the day — just make sure they’re placed out of reach and won’t become a hazard while sleeping.
Step 7: Test It Out
Once you have all the steps in place, it’s time to test it out! Place both babies in their cribs and ensure everything is secured properly. Make sure each child is comfortable on their mattress pad, bumpers are secure, sheets aren’t too tight or loose, and there aren’t any items within arm’s reach that could pose a hazard.
If everything looks good, give yourself (and your kids!) a pat on the back — you’ve successfully created the perfect sidecar crib system!
Step 8: Keep an Eye On It
Once your sidecar crib is set up and ready to use, it’s important to watch it. Ensure all bedding items are still secure after each nap or sleep session by checking the bumpers and mattress pads for any tears or loose straps.
If you notice anything off, take the time to repair it right away so your babies can continue having a safe and comfortable sleep space.
Step 9: Clean Regularly
In addition to regular checks of the cribs, make sure to clean them regularly as well. This includes wiping down any bedding items with a damp cloth or using a vacuum cleaner attachment on hard-to-reach areas.
Don’t forget about the mattress pads and bumpers, either — these should be washed at least once a week to keep them clean and free of dust mites.
Step 10: Enjoy!
The last step in setting up your sidecar crib system is to enjoy it! Your babies will love having their own beds while still being close enough for quality bonding time during naps or bedtimes. Plus, you can rest easy knowing your little ones have safe, comfortable sleeping spaces that won’t break the bank.
With these ten steps, you’ll have two cozy beds set up in no time. So go ahead and get started — you’re sure to find the perfect sidecar crib solution for your family.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Make sure to attach the sidecar crib to the bed frame firmly. Use a tight fitting sheet and tuck it beneath the mattress for extra security.
- When using a sidecar crib, make sure to position the bed safely away from windows and other furniture. This will prevent potential injuries if your baby rolls out of the sidecar crib.
- Consider using a breathing monitor when co-sleeping in case of any obstructive sleep apnea that may occur while sleeping on the sidecar crib.
- Be mindful of your little one’s movements – be sure to check up on them every so often to ensure they are not getting too hot or cold while sleeping in their sidecar crib.
- Consult with your pediatrician before attempting to use a sidecar crib for your baby’s sleep space – this is especially important for preemies, babies with health problems, and children under six months of age.
By following these tips and tricks, you can provide a safe sleep space for your little one! If you have further questions or concerns about using a sidecar crib, please consult your pediatrician.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid using a sidecar crib if your baby is under six months old, as this increases the risk of SIDS.
- Never leave your baby unattended in their sidecar crib or use it as a substitute for an actual crib – always stay close by and check on them periodically while they sleep.
- Do not place extra pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or other objects into the sidecar crib, as this can increase the risk of suffocation.
- Avoid putting toys near the sidecar crib where babies can reach them while sleeping – these can pose a choking hazard and should be placed far away from the bed area during nap and nighttime.
- Make sure that both cribs are firmly fastened together before placing your babies in them – locking clamps or screws can help them stay connected and secure during sleep transitions.
Following these guidelines, you can create a safe and comfortable sleep space for your little ones! Always monitor the setup and check up on your babies periodically while they’re sleeping. Please consult with your pediatrician for any further questions or concerns about setting up a sidecar crib.
Conclusion
To sum up, setting up a sidecar crib can be an efficient and resourceful way to save space and time while caring for your baby. Remember to keep safety at the forefront when making this decision.
Before assembly, ensure the crib follows federal regulations, is properly ventilated, and is secure with no visible damage or missing pieces. Make sure to secure the sidecar crib tightly and safely before use. If you take precautions and research diligently, having a sidecar crib can be an advantageous parenting tool.
That said, it’s important to remember that there’s no right or wrong choice when making any parenting decisions — do what works best for you and your family.
Hopefully, the article on how to sidecar crib has helped provide some useful tips and advice. Always consult with your pediatrician before making any parenting decisions for your little one’s sleep space, and remember to have fun while creating a safe and comfortable sleeping area for your babies!
