Researching the big purchases can feel overwhelming, and choosing your baby's first bed is no exception. While it may not be as expensive as a pram system or car seat, the sheer number of options - combined with conflicting advice - can make it difficult to know what's best.
This guide is designed to give you clear, practical information to help you confidently choose the best first bed for your baby and your family.
Where should a newborn sleep?
Health professionals recommend that babies sleep in the same room as their parents for the first 6 months. This is the period when the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is highest, and room-sharing allows you to keep a close eye on your baby.
Having your baby nearby also makes night feeds easier, helping both you and your baby get more rest.
Why type of bed is suitable for a Newborn?
When choosing your baby's first bed, it's important to think about both daytime and night time sleep. Newborns nap frequently, and many parents prefer to keep baby close during the day - meaning portability is often just as important as comfort.
If you don't want to buy multiple sleep spaces, choosing a bed that can be easily moved around the house is key.
Moses Baskets: A Popular First Bed Choice
For the first few months, many parents choose a Moses Basket or crib rather than a full-sized cost. While a cot is perfectly safe from birth , Moses baskets are often preferred because they are:
- Compact and easy to fit beside your bed
- Cosy and reassuring for newborns
- Lightweight and portable to move around the house day and night
Moses baskets are ideal for keeping your baby close day and night, and can easily be moved from your bedroom to living areas - or even transported in the car when visiting family.
Using a moses basket stand raises the basket to a comfortable height and makes night feeds easier.
Traditional vs Modern Moses Baskets
Traditional wicker moses baskets usually last until around 4 months, depending on baby's size.
Modern alternatives, such as the Shnuggle Dreami Moses Basket, feature a larger base and can last up to 6 months (or until baby starts rolling or pulling themselves up).
Modern designs are often made from hypoallergenic, breathable materials, making them quieter, more hygienic, and easier to clean than wicker.
If you choose an alternative option - such as a bedside crib - you'll need to consider where your baby will sleep during the day, as many parents end up needing a second sleep space downstairs.
Bedside Cribs (Co-sleepers)
A bedside crib, sometimes called a co-sleeper, is a popular modern alternative to a moses basket. These cribs allow your baby to sleep right next to you while remaining in their own safe sleep space, reducing the risks associated with bed sharing.
Most babies use a bedside crib until around 6 months of age, or until they outgrow it or begin rolling.
Benefits of a Bedside Crib
- Attaches a securely to your bed
- Height adjustable for a perfect fit
- Drop-down side for easy night feeds
- Allows comforting baby without getting out of bed
Products such as the Shnuggle Air Lite Bedside Crib are designed with these features in mind.
Safety Considerations
Always ensure your bedside crib:
- Meets the latest safety standard BS EN 1130:2019
- Is correctly attached to your bed with the supplied straps if using the drop side
- Is adjusted to the correct mattress height
Cot or Cot Bed: Long-Term Sleep Solutions
By around 6 months, most babies are ready to move into their own nursery and may have outgrown a moses basket or crib. However a cot is suitable from birth - space allowing.
Features to Look for
- Adjustable base height
- Drop down side
- Sturdy construction and safety certification
Lowering the base as your baby grows helps prevent climbing and improves safety.
Cotbeds
A cotbed is slightly larger than a standard cot and can be converted into a junior bed, usually lasting until around 4 - 5 years old. This makes cot beds a cost effective, long term option and helps ease the transition from cot to bed.
Baby Nests & Sleep Positioners
Baby nests and sleep positioners are useful for supervised daytime rest, but they are not recommended for unsupervised sleep.
They should never be used inside a moses basket or crib, as this increases the risk of overheating and suffocation.
Choosing the Right Mattress & Bedding
Always buy a new mattress for your baby's bed- even if the cot or crib has been used before. A safe mattress should be:
- firm and flat
- A snug fit with no gaps
- Used with correctly sized fitted sheets
Avoid:
- Loose bedding
- Pillows and duvets
- Cot bumpers (due to overheating and entanglement risks)
Baby Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags are a safe alternative to loose blankets and help regulate your baby's temperature. Choose the correct tog based on the room temperature for a safer sleep.
There is no single 'right' choice when it comes to your baby's first bed. Moses baskets, bedside cribs, cots, and cot beds all have their benefits - the best option is the one that fits your space, lifestyle, and budget.
For more helpful advice on safe sleeping check out our Guide to baby safe sleeping
