lotus everywhere travel crib in store

Lotus Travel Crib (Independent) Real-World REVIEW

If you’re looking for an independent, real-world review of the Guava Lotus Travel Crib, you’ve come to the right place!

We used this portable crib continuously for four years as both a primary bed AND travel crib . Yep, you read that right, FOUR years — NOT with the same kid, of course. That would just be cruel and unusual.

As you might expect, we’ve learned a little something from all those months and miles under our belts, and want to share that with anyone else thinking of getting a Lotus travel crib.

So, here goes!

Lotus Travel Crib Review The Ultimate Test

Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib

Why we chose the lotus travel crib, our experience with the lotus travel crib, lotus travel crib review — pros (+).

• Lotus Travel Crib Review — Cons (-)

Would We Buy It Again?

When our first son, Noe, was born, Lori and I knew we were moving to Southeast Asia in a few months to start a new job. We needed a crib that could double as an ultra-portable infant bed, and eventually a portable toddler bed, too.

Our criteria was simple:

• The portable crib had to be lightweight and easy to setup and take down (for traveling with the kiddo ), yet sturdy enough to be our son’s full-time bed.
• The thing also needed to be well-built to handle the rigors of daily use and abuse, but also large enough to serve as a travel crib for a toddler someday.
• And, of course, it needed to meet basic safety standards for infants .

And that was about it.

After considering other similar cribs and play yards like the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and reading the latest Lotus travel crib reviews on Amazon , we decided to go with the Lotus crib.

What ultimately sold us on the Lotus crib (in addition to price and positive reviews) was the compact size ,  side zipper door , backpack straps , and overall build quality .

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True to its name, the Guava Family Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib (that’s one heck of a name!) has been everywhere with us — and when I say “everywhere” I mean it.

We moved to Laos when Noe was three months old, and—with the exception of a handful of nights on planes and a boat—he spent every night in this crib until the ripe old age of 2.5, when baby brother, Riley, moved in and Noe graduated to a big boy bed.

That includes dozens of budget backpacking trips throughout Southeast Asia, hotels in the U.S., and countless flights, buses, and boats along the way.

All the while, our son’s portable crib was traveling right alongside us.

So how did the Lotus travel crib held up? Read on to find out.

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Quick and Easy Setup (and Take-down)

When I first took the Lotus crib out of its package, it took about 10 minutes for me to initially figure out how to assemble and disassemble the thing.

Now, it takes me about three minutes to set up (including attaching the bed sheet — more on that later) and less than a minute to collapse and put the travel crib in its carrying case.

There are two hidden safety releases which must be squeezed at the same time to make the lightweight metal frame fold up for packing.

In order for the crib to fold successfully, each side must find its match, aligning moon to moon, star to star.

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Once the crib is folded flat, the four legs can be folded up by pulling out/down, then folding.

Folded crib goes inside the bottom pad (like a hot dog), then slides into the nylon carrying case.

I’ve included the diaper here, not so much to add some flair (though I do think it adds a nice little touch of reality), but rather to add some sense of scale of how compact the ol’ portable crib is.

Convenient Side Zipper

The Guava Lotus travel crib has a number of helpful features that we like. One of our favorite features is a convenient side zip door (for easy access to your little troublemaker)…

…and a zipper “lock” to keep said-troublemaker from not getting into more trouble, and help mommy and daddy sleep better at night…

…or during the day…

Lightweight AND Built Like a Tank

Obviously, the big selling point of any travel crib is its portability. Or, at least, that’s the idea.

In addition to being portable, we also wanted something that would stand up to both the rigors of both travel and daily use.

Many parents we know had Pak ‘n’ Play cribs, which they were very happy with. But they were just to big, bulky, and heavy for our needs.

Others swore by the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light , which lacked the side door and seemed a bit too lightweight for the durability we wanted.

The Lotus travel crib seemed to strike a balance between the two, which was perfect for our needs.

Easy to Clean

In addition to its portability and strong, yet lightweight construction, the Lotus crib is really easy to clean.

The whole soft shell zips off of the frame for easy machine washing, the vinyl pad makes cleaning up spills and other nastiness pain free, and the 100% cotton sheets are what you’d expect.

Lotus Travel Crib Review — Cons (-)

Velcro system could be improved.

As mentioned above, it takes me 3-5 minutes on a good day to completely set up the crib. It would actually take me a fraction of that time if it weren’t for the six velcro tabs that hold the sheet and pad securely in place.

But it’s nice to know that no matter how hard the kid tugs on it or rolls around, that sheet ain’t going nowhere .

2nd Kid Addendum

Our first son in his 2.5 years of residency never achieved this, but our younger son at 19 months is something of an animal, managing to yank the pad up occasionally. It’s worth noting that, as you might expect, the velcro has weakened a bit over the past four years of use and abuse.

If Guava Family did happen to come up with a quicker-release system that didn’t sacrifice the sheet and mattress’ firm connection to the base of the crib, I’d be very happy.

On the other hand, if I get to the point where I can’t even spare three minutes to get this thing setup, setting up a folding portable crib for a toddler is probably the least of my issues.

Some Toddlers Can Tip It Over

Yes, it is possible for some kids to be able to tip the crib over and escape.

This was never, ever an issue with our oldest son (he rarely even rocked the crib up through age 2.5 when he graduated to a bed).

However, our youngest surprised us around the age of two when he started flipping the crib on its side and escaping (which honestly took him quite a bit of effort, even at two).

Fortunately, it was never a safety issue for us, so much as a distraction for him, and after a few weeks the novelty wore off.

Not Quite Carry-On Size

While the Lotus travel crib folds up to a pretty compact size, you probably won’t get away with putting it in the overhead bin in today’s airliners.

With that said, if you are lucky (i.e. not on a domestic flight in the U.S.), chances are your airline still allows one free checked-in bag (even for your lap baby!).

For every other mode of transport—cars, trains, boats, camel—you should have no worries.

Sheets Are Not Included

It’s important to note that, at least as of this writing, the Lotus travel crib does not come with the custom, fitted sheets (they are sold separately here ).

Obviously, you’ll want at least one, but you’ll probably want a second as well…particularly if you plan on actually taking this travel crib on the road, as all good travel cribs deserve from time to time.

I’m happy to report that after four years of continuous use and abuse, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib surpassed our expectations. Even with the current offerings in 2023, we think we’d still be hard pressed to find a better travel crib at any price point.

If you are looking for a travel crib that’s built like a tank yet uber portable, easy to clean, easy to setup, and comfortable for baby or young toddler, then we’d recommend Lotus travel crib hands down .

Available on Amazon.com

Want more real world baby and toddler travel gear advice from two nomadic parents? Then be sure to also check out:

• 10 Baby Travel Essentials for More Fun, Less Stress
• ErgoBaby 360 vs Omni 360 – A Traveler’s Review
• 10 Game-Changing Toddler Travel Essentials
• 15 Easy Tips for a Road Trip with an Infant or Toddler
• Traveling with a Toddler – 10 Expert Tips from a Nomadic Family

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And That’s Our Lotus Travel Crib Real World Review

Do you have a Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib? What did we miss? Let us know in the comments below.

14 thoughts on “Lotus Travel Crib (Independent) Real-World REVIEW”

For checking these, did you put it in an additional suitcase or bag, or directly checked it as-is? We’re about to take our first flight and I’m not sure if I’m supposed to put it in anything extra when I check it.

Generally, it had to be checked. We always stuffed as much baby stuff as we could in them to get our money’s worth (diapers, blankets, toys, etc.) and never had an issue.

Hi- did you use the mosquito net? It sounds like you travelled to some pretty exotic places. We are considering using this for our 3 month old but are concerned with him sleeping so close to the ground, and need to be sure the mosquito net really does keep our any small creatures where we are going (lizards, etc). It looks like the net doesn’t work with the bassinet, only the crib.

Hi Maureen- We did have the mosquito net but honestly we never got the use we thought we’d get out of it. We had the “Fun Shade” from the very beginning, which we found much more useful in year 1 because it protected our son from mosquitoes while also blocking out a lot of light during naps (it covers the top and one long side). After our son began to pull himself up to stand, however, both the net and the Fun Shade became pretty useless. Even with the crib open on top, we never had an issue with crawly critters finding their way in during the 4 years we used it in Southeast Asia and Mexico with our boys. That’s not to say it can’t happen, of course, but I think it’s pretty unlikely. We didn’t have the bassinet, but I can see why it wouldn’t work with the net or Fun Shade.

We used this for our son as both a travel and primary bed after he started escaping his crib around 18 months. I will say that we had to stop using it around 2, when he simply could flip himself out of it or over the top. I still think we’ll get great use from it with out next one and plan to get the bassinet conversion, but thought I’d throw out there for reference on its longevity in our house.

Thanks Kirsten for sharing your experience! Incidentally, our #2 started tipping it over as well around 2 years, and your comment was a great reminder to add that to the review. Worth noting that #1 never even attempted (we moved him out at age 2.5), so I guess it depends on the tenacity of the kid.

We have been using the bassinet converter kit the first 4 months of our baby’s life and are transitioning to the regular set up now that she is starting to roll over. The bassinet was super easy to set up/take down and it was nice to have the option of rocking our daughter to sleep when she was really small, Having had a c section, I was glad we got the bassinet set up since I had less ability to bend over those first weeks (which was also when baby needed lots of ups and downs for feeding). Thanks for the review of the crib!!

Thanks for sharing, Kim! Super helpful info for other moms who find themselves in a similar situation!

This is quite descriptive. I like that it is super easy to set up and take down so the little one is put to sleep as soon as they need it. I think this makes it all the more fantastic for travelers.

Thanks Jerome. Agreed!

Thanks for this review! I am considering this as the main + travel crib too – did you put kid #2 into it from birth onward? They sell a version with a bassinet converter kit but I wonder why that would be necessary if they say this is safe for infant sleep? Would love any insight you can give! Thanks!

That’s a good question, as we’ve wondered that ourselves. When #2 came along, #1 was still sleeping in the Lotus. It wasn’t until we moved into long-term housing that we transitioned #1 to a big boy bed (@2.5 yrs) and #2 into the Lotus (@3 months). Our oldest started sleeping in it at around 3 weeks old and we were happy with the outcome. We never ended up getting the bassinet converter.

Thanks for replying! Good to know. I actually also sent Guava an email and they confirmed it’s certified safe for infant sleep (same certifications as most pack and plays). I guess the bassinet is a ploy to get extra money from clueless parents using that bassinet buzzword 🙂

Or when you dont want to bend all the way over after just giving birth to continuously pick up a newborn, I think the bassinet converter could be very helpful for that.

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• Baby Registry

Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib Review

Pros • Super easy to pop up and break down • Compact backpack-style travel case • Side zipper door for easy access • Mesh siding is safe for baby

Cons • Mattress is a little thin

Bottom Line As its name implies you can take the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib pretty much everywhere! Thanks to its small footprint, lightweight carrying case and very quick setup, we can’t imagine life without it.

Rating: 4.5 stars

When I started searching for a travel crib, I had three main criteria in mind: easy assembly, lightweight and safe. The Lotus Crib by Guava Family exceeded my expectations in all three of these areas.

One of my favorite things about the Lotus is the zippered mesh side door—a feature that some other popular travel cribs and playards like Baby Bjorn and Summer Infant don’t offer. When my daughter Hadley was younger and struggled to fall asleep away from home, it was really nice to be able to zip open the door of the crib so I could lie down with her and rub her back (it often made it easier to get her in the crib too, since we didn’t have to lean all the way over and down while trying to support her—instead we could just slide her in through the side opening). Once she fell asleep, I could quietly slide out and zip up the side, leaving her to slumber (well, at least until she realized I had left!). As she got older, it was also really helpful to just open the side door and let her crawl out on her own, especially when I was pregnant with baby no. 2 and it was a lot harder to bend down and pick her up.

Another feature worth noting is the breathable mesh siding. I’ve never worried about baby being able to breathe as she snuggles next to the walls of the Lotus crib. It also seems pretty durable, since in the two years we’ve been using the crib the mesh has never snagged or ripped.

Finally, since we travel a ton, the thought of toting around a bulky, heavy crib that needs to be checked on the plane is not appealing. But the Lotus folds down into a 24 inch by 7 inch by 11 inch case with convertible backpack straps that weighs just 13 pounds with the crib inside. Such a great feature, and I love that we have the option to carry this crib right onto the plane. Easy, right?

Performance

Having used other friends’ playards while traveling, I was pleasantly surprised by the portability and user-friendliness of this travel crib. I’ve seen my friends sweat over the assembly of the heavy metal bars and cumbersome parts of other cribs. Not so with the Lotus. Setting up the crib is easy and takes about two minutes. You can start before you even take it out of the carrying case: Simply unzip the bag, open the folded mattress, extend the lightweight metal legs of the crib and pull it out of the case. Voilà! You’re halfway there. Next just pull the sides open to arms’ width and it will fully expand—the top rail clicks into a rigid, sturdy position so you know it’s ready to go. Finally, place the mattress in the base. A set of four Velcro tabs must be fed through narrow slits on the mattress sheet to the base of the crib to secure the mattress. This does add a little time to the setup process but it’s easy enough, and it’s important because it reinforces the safety of the crib.

Since the mattress and bottom of the crib rest on the floor there’s no weight limit. That means you can use the crib even after your child surpasses the 30-pound limit of most other cribs. At 19 months, Hadley is already 30 pounds and we continue to use the Lotus. She still has plenty of room to grow in this space and has never been even close to being able to climb out. Now that she’s older, I put the crib in our living room, open the side door and drape a blanket over it to create a little “fort” in which she loves to play and feel independent.

We chose the Lotus Travel crib because of its clean, simple design. I love the black and gray crib with a clean white crib mattress and sheet. The black carrying case is sleek and fits in nicely with our regular luggage while traveling. Lotus also makes a few accessories for the crib that are great to bring on vacation, like the full coverage mosquito net ($27) and Fun Shade ($37), which comes in five colors to cover the back and top of the crib to block the sun and create a darker area for naptime.

The crib itself is longer and narrower than other playards (42 inches long by 24 inches wide internally; 45 inches long by 32 inches wide externally), which is great on one hand, because it’s been able to grow with my extra-tall toddler. On the other hand, that does mean you have to purchase specially sized crib sheets from Guava Family ($20).

One last thing to note: Guava Family also makes the Lotus Bassinet for newborns. If you already own this you can purchase the conversion kit ($100) and turn the bassinet into the Travel Crib when you’re ready. Or vice versa, if you already have the Travel Crib you can purchase the conversion kit ($110) and turn the crib into the bassinet.

As any parent who’s done it knows, traveling with a child is exhausting. The amount of stuff you find yourself taking for an overnight trip is laughable. Lotus has gone the extra mile to make this a lightweight, portable and safe travel crib that’s perfect for all our family’s adventures. While I’m attending to our daughter my husband wears the rectangular case as a backpack, which frees his hands to carry other luggage. And we don’t just use it when we’re on the go—I keep it in the living room to corral our toddler while I clean the house. Living in New York City, where we have a tiny apartment, I truly appreciate its small footprint and even more compact storage size.

Amanda Goetz lives in New York City with her two daughters and husband. She is Director of Marketing for The Knot. When she’s not getting couples excited about finding their dream team of wedding vendors on The Knot, she’s running around Central Park with her jogging stroller or taking her girls to the amazing museums in NYC (dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum are the current go-to excursion).

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Lotus Everywhere Crib: Puts “travel” back in travel crib

by Kristen Chase | Feb 4, 2013 | Baby | 2 comments

I’m always amazed to see the vast improvements in baby gear even since my littlest one, only two, was a baby, which gives me hope that they will one day be able to manufacture sleep for us parents. Ha.

Until then, I’ll just take little advances, like what the folks at Guava Family have done to the travel crib.

The new Guava Family Lotus Everywhere crib  has a sleek, compact design, and what’s really special: a handy convertible carrying bag that you can turn into a backpack. As a mom of four, I can appreciate having two extra hands, especially when I’m on the road.

It’s definitely easy to set up, with just a couple of pops for the side rails and dropping the mattress in and attaching it with velcro. I admit that I’m a little iffy on the white mattress, though, especially since it sits on the floor with only the mesh bottom in between, but since I never actually used my travel crib without a sheet, it’s no biggie. Plus you can wash the safe, non-toxic cover and clean the mattress, so the color should be nothing to deter you from the crib’s versatility.

I do like how you can either place your baby in over the top, or unzip the side mesh panel and put them in that way, which is handy for grandparents, or tall people (like me) who don’t love breaking their back to get a sleeping baby in and out of the crib. Plus, it can work as a little play fort for your older toddler who likes to hang out inside but wants to be able to get out on his own too.But even if you’re using it for toddlers, keep in mind it’s really designed as a travel crib. So while it’s compact, it’s definitely sturdy–something my rough 2-year old can attest to after giving it a hard-core trial run.

I will say it took me a little longer than I’d have liked to take it down. Even though there are directions and arrows on the actual cover, it was unclear to me that the buttons on the rails were on the underside, which I finally figured out after pulling back the cover. But my guess is once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to pack it away pretty quickly.  – Kristen

You can purchase the  Guava Family Lotus travel crib  on their website. 

Written by Kristen Chase

Kristen co-founded Cool Mom Picks and is a busy mom of four kids in the Philly 'burbs. Though really, name a mom who isn't busy. Bio Twitter Instagram

My daughter is 10 months, so we don’t need if for her. But I would love to win this and give it to someone in need! Thanks for the giveaway!

That crib looks like a great design. The backpack idea is genius – ideal for parents who already have their hands full!

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Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib Review

A lightweight travel crib that delivers on simplicity and portability

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib

Verywell Family / Charlene Petitjean-Barkulis

A breeze to pop open

Convenient and compact carry bag

Transforms into a play yard

Reasonably priced

Mattress is thin and made of cold plastic

No fitted sheet

Tricky to fold

With its quick setup, small footprint, and convenient carry bag, the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib is a must-have for globetrotting families.

• Setup Process
• Portability
• Competition
• Final Verdict

We purchased the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib so our expert reviewer could thoroughly test and assess it. Keep reading for our full product review.

Traveling with children gets physical quickly. The amount of stuff you have to schlep is slightly crazy. But the Lotus Travel Crib by Guava Family, one of the most highly rated play yards out there, is heralded for its lightweight construction, ease of use, and safe design. We tested it out on a trip to California to see for ourselves. Read on to find out how the pack ‘n play fared.

Setup Process: As user-friendly as it gets

I’ve broken a sweat trying to put together travel cribs before. Some of them require serious puzzle skills, too, but that’s not the case with the Lotus. It took me all but two minutes to set it up. You simply take the crib out of its bag and open the folded mattress that contains the frame when in the bag. Next, extend the aluminum legs and pull the sides of the crib open to arm’s width. At that point, the frame will fully extend, and the top rail will click sturdily into place. Add the mattress in, and voilà! 

The only time-consuming step here is the last one: You have to secure the mattress to the frame. To do that, you have to feed the Velcro tabs that are on each corner and side of the mattress (six in total) to the base of the crib. This is a safety mechanism that’s common in travel cribs, so as to prevent space the mattress separating from the frame.

I’ve broken a sweat trying to put together travel cribs before…but that’s not the case with the Lotus.

Folding the Lotus can be slightly trickier, though still easier than other lightweight travel cribs we’ve used. Once you’re done using it, take the mattress out and loosen the frame by squeezing levers on each side of the crib. The levers are easy to locate; just look for arrows on the rail’s fabric. Once you do that, you’ll be able to zig-zag the mattress into a tight fold and secure it closed with the clip. That taken care of, you’ll want to fold the legs by pulling them back. This step didn’t come naturally to me and required the kind precision and strength that slowed the process down ever so slightly. Once you fold the legs, the frame is ready to fit back into the mattress, which can then go back into the carry case which can be conveniently worn like a backpack. 

Design: Clean and simple design that will grow with your baby

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib has a simple and clean design. I particularly love its color block combo. The crib’s fabric is a soft grey and black mélange and its frame is a clean white which is ideal for modern, design-driven parents. The black carry bag that it comes in is sleek and fit seamlessly with our other belongings—no one suspected we were hauling a piece of baby gear around.  

When assembled, the travel crib measures 46 x 32 inches. The mattress itself measures 41 x 23 inches, which is longer and narrower than other travel cribs. This is great for bigger kids. Our 2-year-old son, who’s already 37 inches tall, comfortably fits in the crib. There isn’t much room left, but that doesn’t seem to bother him.

No matter how much my little one moved in his sleep, the mattress stayed in place, which meant he didn’t startle or wake himself up.

The only downside to the crib’s unconventional size is that you have to purchase the brand’s fitted sheets which are specially made for the Lotus. These cost $20, so it’s an added expense to consider—especially since you’ll probably want at least two in case of a blowout or spit-up incidents.  

Another design consideration we were perplexed by at first: The mattress, which rests directly on the floor without any elevation from your typical crib legs or feet. Guava Family notes that the floor-resting mattress is beneficial for a few reasons. It doesn’t shake or squeak when your little one rolls around; you can unzip the side and transform the crib into a play yard; and it doesn’t weigh as much as standard travel cribs. The last factor is one we can get down with as the Lotus weighs much less than other travel cribs and is therefore easier to lug around. And after testing it out, we did find that the floor-resting mattress—paired with the crib’s diagonal leg design—offered more stability. No matter how much my little one moved in his sleep, the mattress stayed in place, which meant he didn’t startle or wake himself up. 

Verywell Family / Charlene Petitjean-Barukulis 

Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry 

No one wants to travel with a bulky crib that drags on the floor and that you ultimately need to check in at the airport. Luckily, portability is where the Lotus shines. When folded, the crib, which weighs a mere 13 pounds (less than half the weight of most mainstream travel cribs) shrinks to a very manageable 24 x 7 x 11 inches. It also slips into a carry bag that functions like a backpack. This proved to be an amazing feature as I was able to navigate the airport hands-free, tending to my children and even myself. 

The Lotus Crib also folds down small enough to be taken through airport security and onto a plane. My husband and I have tried to sneak other travel cribs in, but we’ve always ended up being asked to check them in, so this was a major win!

The black carry bag…is sleek and fit seamlessly with our other belongings—no one suspected we were hauling a piece of baby gear around.

When open, the Lotus is just as easy to move around the house; and once you’re done using it, it’s compact and can be stored away in the tightest closet corner. 

We’ve also used it for our nanny share, and it’s really simplified the drop-off process. I’ve been able to carry the travel crib as a backpack while hauling my little one in his stroller—and all of this without breaking my back.  

Comfort: Perhaps more parent- than baby-centric? 

Guava Family claims that their mattress is thick and comfy, giving babies “all-night comfort.” But I found it to be rather thin, which is problematic considering it sits directly on the floor. To us, the surface feels a bit hard and more appropriate for playtime than bedtime. 

What’s more, the mattress, which is made of insulated foam, has a waterproof cover. This is great to protect against baby’s usual accidents, but it makes for a cold surface to sleep on. My son still slept through the night, and my nanny says that it hasn’t affected naptime, but I felt guilty having him sleep on a plastic-like austere surface. That’s why I think Guava’s crib sheets are indispensable. Note, however, that if you purchase the crib on Amazon, you will need to buy the fitted sheet separately . 

One great feature is the crib’s crawl-through zipper door. This is great not only for playtime, but for soothing baby to sleep. Thanks to this thoughtful feature, I was able to comfort my toddler as he drifted off to sleep without having to lean over and break my back. This feature is an undeniable plus for parents who know they will have to tend to their kids at bedtime for an extended period of time.

Safety: Breathable and eco-conscious 

Unlike many other travel cribs, the Lotus is constructed from a whole lot of mesh. It’s on all four sides, and from below the mattress all the way up to the top rail. This makes for a safe, breathable environment for littles to sleep in. What’s more, I’m able to peek in on my son from wherever I stand. If you have a super smart tot on your hand, you can also lock the side zipper in place to prevent them from escaping. 

Last—but definitely not least—the Lotus is Greenguard certified. This means the crib has met strict chemical emissions limits and is free from PVC, phthalates, flame retardants, and other substances that pose a threat to your child’s health.

Price: Beats the competition

The Lotus Travel Crib has an MSRP of $249.95 but you can often find it for $200 or less at online retailers like Amazon. Considering all the bells and whistles it comes with, it’s certainly worth the price. While you can certainly find cheaper options, if you’re looking at well-known brands like BabyBjörn or 4moms, the Lotus is actually mid-range in price. 

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib v. BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light 

Guava Family’s Travel Crib and BabyBjörn’s Travel Crib Light are very similar. They’re roughly the same size, they’re a breeze to set up, they’re lightweight, and they both have mesh on all four sides. That said, the Lotus’ carry bag, which can morph into a backpack, is much more convenient that BabyBjörn’s. Plus, the BabyBjörn travel crib retails for $320—that’s $70 more than the Lotus. If you’re looking for a long-lasting crib that won’t add to the exhaustion of family travel (or break the bank in the process), the Lotus is our top choice. 

Yes, buy it! 

If you’re in search of a travel crib that is compact, user-friendly, safe, and eco-friendly, the Lotus is everything you’re looking for. Get it and you won’t regret it!

• Product Name Lotus Travel Crib
• Product Brand Guava Family
• SKU B00AKKDSNG
• Price $249.95
• Weight 13 lbs.
• Product Dimensions 46 x 32 x 25.5 in.
• Material Aluminum frame, mesh fabric
• Warranty 30 days for a full return; 3-year warranty

By Charlene Petitjean-Barkulis Charlene Petitjean-Barkulis is a lifestyle writer specializing in parenting, family products, and home decor and has written for Health Magazine, Motherly, and more. 

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This Parent-loved Travel Crib Folds Up Into a Backpack and Is $50 Off Right Now

Traveling with a baby to Airbnbs, hotels, and the grandparents has never been easier.

Traveling with a baby presents its own set of unique problems , including the one of where they’re going to sleep when you reach your destination. And if you’ve ever set up a traditional portable crib or playpen, you probably know how frustrating they can be. They’re unwieldy, many of them are heavy, and the majority of them require a complicated system of pulling the sides up while simultaneously installing the bottom—a process that seems to require both four arms and an engineering degree. 

Enter the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib , which whisks away all of the cumbersome challenges of a traditional travel crib and replaces them with lightweight, easy-to-assemble, and snap-to-transport features. It’s so convenient, in fact, that it folds down into an actual backpack that you can throw on your back and head out of the door with. It’s no wonder parents love it—and it happens to be $50 off right now, making it a great time to scoop up this travel-friendly crib.

To buy : guavafamily.com , $230 (originally $280)

Out of the carrying bag, the Lotus Travel Crib comes in at just 13 pounds, thanks to an aluminum frame, which makes it super easy to carry and transport. Another parent-favorite function is the awesome 3D fold. Without requiring any disassembly or extra steps, the Guava folds down into a wearable backpack—which makes carrying it through the airport a total breeze. 

RELATED: 11 One-and-done Travel Dresses Under $50 That Will Make Any Mom Feel Comfortable and Stylish

Folded down, the Lotus also boasts a size that is smaller than 50% of travel cribs on the market at 24" L x 12" W x 8" H. The crib and the carrying bag together still only clocks in around 15 pounds. 

Essentially, you can boil the Lotus Travel Crib down to two words: sturdy but lightweight. Virtually all of the reviews on the Guava Family site say the same thing—this is a high-quality, well-made travel crib that sets up in a snap, disassembles even more easily, and can be taken anywhere. According to one happy reviewer, the Lotus made their vacation with a baby “such a breeze,” while another praised it for being “super easy to travel with.”

One of the best features of the Lotus noted by several parent reviewers is that it allows for the included mattress to be placed directly on the floor, which offers maximum support and accessibility. With traditional playpens, the crib mattress is usually suspended above the ground without real support, so they’re often uncomfortable depending on your baby’s weight. One reviewer commented how she was surprised to see that their baby seemed much more comfortable sleeping in the Lotus as compared to traditional pack-and-plays.

The floor-lying mattress also means that the travel crib can be used for potentially longer than traditional playpens because it doesn’t have a weight limit with the mattress being supported by the floor. In fact, some parents have found the floor mattress to be so comfortable they use it as a regular toddler bed, even when not traveling. One parent explained that the Lotus is a “great fit” for their very active toddler, keeping them “safe and contained.”  

With a mattress on the floor, toddlers and parents can also have access to one of the coolest features of the Lotus: the zippered side mesh panel that fully zips open, allowing for an open-access play area. One reviewer called the side panel “wonderful” and pointed out that it allows parents or caregivers who have a problem bending down to more safely get a baby or toddler in and out of the crib. 

The Lotus is also great for other caregivers or to stash at grandparents’ houses. For instance, one grandmother caring for her grandson shared how “easy” the crib was to pack and unpack on her own. “I can move it around from room to room without any problems,” she added.  

And we may have saved the best feature of the Lotus Travel Crib for last: the entire zip on-off fabric covering is machine-washable. Take my word on this one—once you try to clean a traditional pack-and-play, you’ll never want to do it again, so the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib wins all the awards for offering this feature. So hurry and snag this parent-approved travel crib while it’s $50 off.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $230. 

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Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard

$229.95 $229.95 .

wildtalesof.com

Growing up in a world of adventure.

July 14, 2016

How to Set-up Guava Family’s Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib

We first learned about the Guava Family company when I was pregnant with Bergen,  he’s almost 5 years old now . Slaed and I were shopping at REI and noticed the Go-Crib  (one of their original travel cribs) set-up and on display. We knew immediately that it was the crib for our future travels and outdoor adventures, and purchased it right away.

The Go-Crib served us well for many years (5 years!) of frequent use including travel and in-home childcare.  We roughly calculated, and it’s likely that the crib was set-up and taken down approximately 500 times ! Unfortunately all that use took it’s toll on one of the valves where the pump is inserted, and consequently the small piece tore,  not allowing us to keep one of the legs inflated.   Such a bummer! We absolutely adored that crib, and are so grateful for all the years of wonderful, comfortable sleep for our two little travelers. 

The bad news is, the Guava Family couldn’t replace our Go-Crib (since the product has been discontinued), but the  good news is,  they now make an even easier (and faster) to assemble travel crib called the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib . Guava Family generously sent us the Lotus in exchange for our honest review here on the blog.

I’m waiting to put the travel crib through some more testing via the rest of our summer travels, but in the meantime, I recorded a video to show just how easy and quick the Lotus Everywhere Crib is to set-up and breakdown.  To be fair, I’m not as fast as the parents you see on the Guava Family website, but I’m getting there! Maybe by the end of the summer, I’ll be just as speedy!  It’s honestly a breath of fresh air though, and the crib’s simplicity and ease of set-up makes me a little giddy each time I do it!

Set-up of the Lotus Everywhere Crib

1. release/straighten legs of the crib, 2. pull open the base until the long sides of the top rails click., 3. insert the mattress., to purchase the lotus everywhere travel crib:, visit the guava family website, visit our amazon store.

Come join the conversation! You can keep up to date with each and every post by subscribing to the blog via email. We’d also love to have you join us on all of our adventures by “liking” our  facebook page , following us on  twitter , and exploring with us on Instagram ! If you enjoyed this post, please “like it”, “tweet it” or “pin it”! **Affiliate links are used in this post to direct readers to resources in our Amazon store. 

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Guava Lotus Travel Crib Bundle: Cotton + Quilted Sheet, and Mattress | Play Yard with Lightweight Backpack Design | Certified Baby Safe Portable Crib | Folding Portable Playpen for Babies & Toddlers

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• 【COMPLETE TRAVEL CRIB BUNDLE】Get the whole package with a Guava travel crib bundle including a portable crib mattress, two sheets: one fitted cotton sheet and one quilted fitted sheet, and a compact, airport-friendly backpack carrying case. This portable baby bed includes a removable, washable fabric and mesh cover for easy cleaning and maintenance – all backed by a two-year warranty and excellent customer service.
• 【CERTIFIED SAFE & LOW-VOC】It’s surprising, but some baby products, including play yards, still contain harsh chemicals. That didn’t fly with our team, so we had the Lotus tested, and certified, GreenGuard Gold – one of the only portable play yards to do so. What does that mean? No PVC, lead, formaldehyde, mercury, arsenic, phthalates, or other dangerous chemicals. Whether resting or playing, the Lotus truly creates a safe and comfortable environment for your little one.
• 【WORRY-FREE AIRPORT TRAVEL】3D Z-Fold Technology allows it to fold compact enough to carry through airports, making the Lotus Travel Crib a baby travel essential. The durable yet lightweight design weighs only 15 lbs and can be set up in just 15 seconds! The foldable crib’s ability to be carried as a lightweight backpack allows you to travel hands-free with ease.
• 【BUILD A BETTER BOND】Quietly and easily unzip the lockable side door to help your baby fall asleep or turn the portable crib into a play yard. With the door open, you can nurse or cuddle your little one to help them feel safe and secure in a new place and foster an even stronger connection. The updated, insulated mattress has a thick, soft foam approved for overnight sleep (ages 0-3) making it a safe and comfortable environment for both resting and playing.
• 【FITS JUST RIGHT】 After years of dedication, we have finally achieved the ideal sheet design for your Lotus Travel Crib. Our fitted sheets combine non-stretch and elastic sections to guarantee a flawless fit on your Lotus Crib mattress. The buckle and Velcro slots are meticulously crafted with reinforced heavy-duty stitching, providing unmatched durability and preventing any possible snags or tearing.

Additional Details

• 【CERTIFIED SAFE & LOW-VOC】It’s surprising, but some baby products, including play yards, still contain harsh chemicals. That didn’t fly with our team, so we had the Lotus tested, and certified, GreenGuard Gold – one of the only portable play yards to do so. What does that mean? No PVC, lead, formaldehyde, mercury, arsenic, phthalates, or other dangerous chemicals. Whether resting or playing, the Lotus truly creates a safe and comfortable environment for your little one
• 【BUILD A BETTER BOND】Quietly and easily unzip the lockable side door to help your baby fall asleep or turn the portable crib into a play yard. With the door open, you can nurse or cuddle your little one to help them feel safe and secure in a new place and foster an even stronger connection. The updated insulated mattress has a thick, soft foam approved for overnight sleep (ages 0-3) making it a safe and comfortable environment for both resting and playing.
• 【LASTING COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE】The Lotus Crib portable playard is made with high-quality aluminum and non-slip rubberized feet, making it travel-ready and easy to assemble. It’s perfect for parents on-the-go who need a reliable and convenient portable travel crib. Plus, our portable toddler bed features a full-height ClearView mesh design for better visibility & airflow.
• 【WHAT’S INCLUDED】You get a complete travel crib with a portable crib mattress and a compact, airport-friendly backpack carrying case. This portable baby bed includes a removable, washable fabric and mesh cover for easy cleaning and maintenance – all backed by a two-year warranty and excellent customer service. Note that sheets are not included, but are also available in quilted and cotton form on Amazon!

• 【PERFECT FIT & LASTING QUALITY】After years of dedicated craftsmanship, we have achieved the ideal sheet design for your Lotus Travel Crib. Our quilted fitted sheet combines non-stretch and elastic sections to ensure a flawless fit. The buckle and Velcro slots are meticulously crafted with reinforced heavy-duty stitching, providing unmatched durability and preventing any possibility of tearing or snags.
• 【THE BEST FOR YOUR BABY】We prioritize your baby's health and well-being by carefully selecting high quality materials and crafting our crib sheets without the use of harmful chemicals. Our thoughtful design reduces the risk of skin irritations while providing a safe and comfortable sleep environment for your little one.
• 【SOFT, BREATHABLE, & LONG-LASTING】This Lotus Crib Sheet has a luxurious velvety smooth top surface, coupled with the perfect amount of allergy-free, polyester fill, providing exceptional padding for ultimate comfort. The reinforced, quilted stitch pattern enhances breathability, while the inherent stretch ensures a long-lasting snug and secure fit throughout the night.
• 【WASHER & DRYER FRIENDLY】Our fitted sheets are made with high-quality materials and durable construction, ensuring it can withstand years of travel, washing, and regular use. It's easy to clean too – simply toss it in the washing machine and dryer for a quick refresh after spills or accidents
• 【WORRY-FREE PURCHASE】Purchase with confidence – whether it's for a baby shower gift or personal use – backed by our 100% hassle-free return policy and a reliable 2-year warranty. If you encounter any issues with our baby crib sheets, simply contact us, and we'll promptly replace them or provide a full refund without any excuses.

• 【PERFECT FIT & LASTING QUALITY】 After years of dedicated craftsmanship, we have achieved the ideal sheet design for your Lotus Travel Crib. Our fitted cotton sheet combines non-stretch and elastic sections to ensure a flawless fit. The buckle and Velcro slots are meticulously crafted with reinforced heavy-duty stitching, providing unmatched durability and preventing any possibility of tearing or snags.
• 【SOFT, BREATHABLE, & LONG-LASTING】Crafted from premium 100% cotton jersey knit fabric, this Lotus crib sheet provides a gentle and smooth surface for your infant's sensitive skin. The combination of its flat knit and inherent stretch ensures a long-lasting snug and secure fit throughout the night, while also offering natural wrinkle resistance.
• 【WASHER & DRYER FRIENDLY】Our fitted sheets are made with high-quality materials and durable construction, ensuring they can withstand years of travel, washing, and regular use. Our sheets are easy to clean too – simply toss them in the washing machine and dryer for a quick refresh after spills or accidents.
• 【WORRY-FREE PURCHASE】Purchase with confidence – whether it's for a baby shower gift or personal use – knowing you’re covered by our 100% hassle-free return policy and a reliable 2-year warranty. If you encounter any issues with our baby crib sheets, simply contact us and we'll promptly replace them or provide a full refund without any excuses.

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Fan feature: travel with lotus everywhere crib and lotus crib fun shade.

Got this from a fan who recently took her Lotus Everywhere Crib on vacation. Want to warn you, the vacation looks amazing and the aerial shot just might make you jealous. If you're looking for travel cribs to use on a vacation like this, then think about getting the everywhere crib. 

"We keep saying we don't know what we would have done without it this trip! It's made our first trip with Emelia so stress free:)"

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