Loved products for on-the-go naps
As a mom, I try to keep naps consistent and be home when I can, but to be honest, naps on the go are inevitable from time to time. When I became a new parent I wasn’t sure how naps outside of the regular sleep space would affect my baby’s sleep schedule and this became a big stressor for how I planned our day. I needed to run errands and grocery shop during the week which meant bringing my baby with me during naptime and whether I was at a friend’s house or driving to the store, my baby would often fall asleep. Luckily, with the right setting and products naps on the go didn’t completely ruin his schedule and these are now my go-to to help him still get those naps in when we are out and about.
Note: It is important to know that if your infant falls asleep in their car seat, you should always make sure you are following safe sleep practices. While the car is in motion, babies can safely sleep in their carseat as long as their head is positioned upright and oxygen is freely flowing. But your baby should never sleep in a car seat outside of the car and base.
Many of the products I recommend can be bought from amazon or goodbuy (where parents can buy and sell used kid and baby items). I love the sustainable focus of purchasing high quality used gear that has been checked by a reliable team! But there are a lot of options available from different brands that can also be very helpful for naps on the go!
Here are a few of my favorite suggestions for products you know you’ll need to help make your on-the-go naps safer and easier to manage.
Rear facing strollers
I recommend a car seat where the child is facing you. It is important to see your baby’s face when sleeping in the stroller which is obviously difficult to do if they are facing away. Some brands I love are Evenflo and Maxi Cosi. If you have an infant, look for a stroller with a car seat connector. This makes it easier to take the seat out of the car and click it into your stroller if you’re caught with an on-the go nap. And let’s face it, with an infant, you will be!
Portable Noise Machines
I recommend white noise in the nursery and now we can take it on the go! Yogasleep and HoMedics make great options that are lightweight and compact. Both can be hooked onto the carseat of stroller while on the move to provide the ambient sound your babe already loves..
Sun Shades
You will want to create a dark environment for your child to sleep even when on the go. However, a blanket or cover can trap warm air and create a very hot environment for your child. So instead of a blanket, I recommend selecting a product that protects your baby from the sun, but also allows air to flow throughout the carrier. I love both the SnoozeShade and these travel shades from TommeeTippee!
Babywearing Accessories
Babywearing is a great way to bring babies along and to give them the space to sleep. Babywearing is very safe and can be very comforting to your child. Ergobaby makes carriers for children of all ages and is one of the safest and most convenient options.
If your child takes a pacifier, don't forget to bring it along! It will comfort them as they are trying to get some sleep. I love the Itzie Ritzie Sweetie Soother, made from 100% food grade silicone and with collapsible handles as a safety feature!
Lastly, remember, that while on-the-go naps are inevitable at times, it is still best to have your child in their regular sleep environment for the majority of their naps. This is where they will get their most restful sleep and having your child nap in a stroller or carrier isn’t necessarily sustainable long term. If you’re struggling to get your child to sleep consistently, reach out and we are happy to help!
Do you need help with better sleep?
For information about newborn sleep, check out our newborn sleep course.
For more ideas on how to sleep better as an adult, check out our article on healthy sleep hygiene.
For pregnancy-specific sleep tips, click here.
For more travel tips, check out these articles:
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