Baby Nest Q&A

Get answers to all your baby nest questions in our Baby Nest Q&A.

What is a baby nest?
A baby nest is a protected sleeping space for your newborn. It's designed to give baby a feeling of being enclosed – much like when baby was in mummy's tummy – and it’s the perfect place to settle your little one when you can’t hold them in your arms.

A baby nest often consists of a mattress with padded edges that form a small, safe and cosy sleeping space. Some baby nests have handles, allowing you to lift the nest with your baby in it and move the baby effortlessly. There are also multifunctional baby nests designed to meet multiple needs at once.

In just a few years, baby nests have become increasingly popular among parents For many parents, a baby nest has become an essential item on their checklist of things to buy when preparing for life with their newborn.

When to use a baby nest
You can start using a baby nest in the maternity ward when your baby is newborn and getting used to being outside the safety of the womb. The nest is also the perfect place to settle your baby while you’re doing the laundry, going to the loo, cooking, or anything else that requires you to keep your hands free. A baby nest allows you to keep your little one close at all times, ensuring they feel safe and cosy.

The baby nest is also handy when visiting family and friends. You keep your little one safe even if the surroundings are new and unfamiliar.

Why get a Baby Nest? 
A baby nest is a practical solution for many parents, making the transition from the womb to the outside world more pleasant and comfortable for your baby. It's easy to move around while keeping your little one close to you in different situations. The soft edges embrace your newborn, providing a comforting, familiar hug that helps soothe your baby – whether you're at the café, mummy group or sports hall.

Some parents find that their newborn sleeps better when supervised in a baby nest, but this is not a guarantee and depends on the individual baby. Do you actually need a baby nest? Well no, but many parents love the baby nest because it makes their lives easier.
 
How long can you use a baby nest for?
Most baby nests are designed to be used from newborn to around 4-6 months of age. Once your child starts to be able to turn over unassisted or crawl out of the nest, it's time to find another solution.

If you have chosen a baby nest that doubles as a play blanket, you can use the blanket for even longer.

Is a baby nest approved for sleeping in?
There is no safety standard for baby nests that manufacturers can use to test the product against. If a baby nest is approved according to EN 1466:2023, it fulfils the safety requirements of the European safety standards for carrycots.

A baby nest with soft sides tested to EN 1466:2023 is approved for supervised sleeping. This means you can safely let your child nap in the nest when you're nearby.

When not to use a baby nest
Do not use a baby nest in your own bed or for co-sleeping, as it may cause your baby to become too warm, increasing the risk of overheating.

5 TIPS FOR BUYING A BABY NEST

1: Baby nest with handles
There is a big advantage to choosing a baby nest with handles. The handles allow you to lift the baby nest without having to pick up your baby first.

Make sure the handles of the baby nest can be securely locked together when lifting your baby. This prevents accidentally letting go of one handle, causing your baby to fall out of the nest.

Look for the EN 1466:2023 safety standard, which means that the nest is approved as a carrycot. However, always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

2: Baby nest with ties
A baby nest with ties that are freely accessible to your child poses a risk! The child can get tangled in the ties and get hurt. Always keep ties longer than 12 cm away from your child.

3: Baby nest without gap in the bottom
It is best to choose a baby nest with fully enclosed edges to prevent your baby from accidentally moving off the nest.

When choosing a baby nest, make sure there is no deep gap between the bottom and sides, where the baby could roll and risk blocking their airways. 

4: Baby nest mattress
Choose a baby nest with a removable and washable mattress. This is a more practical solution that makes life as a parent easier when accidents happen. Always remember to follow the manufacturer's washing instructions to avoid damaging the baby nest mattress.

5: Baby nest washing instructions
When your baby is in the baby nest, accidents can happen. So choose a washable baby nest or invest in an optional wet sheet for easier cleaning.